03 May,2026 06:08 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. File Pic
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said the state government will seek the death penalty for the accused in the Pune child rape-murder case and ensure a fast-tracked trial to deliver justice in "record time", the PTI reported.
A 65-year-old man with a criminal record has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting and murdering a four-year-old child in Bhor tehsil of Pune district on May 1.
The incident sparked widespread outrage, with hundreds of villagers staging protests demanding strict action against the accused.
Speaking to PTI on the sidelines of an event in Nagpur, Fadnavis said he has spoken to the victim's family and assured them of the government's full support.
"I spoke twice to the father of the victim and assured him that we will work towards securing capital punishment for the accused. The case will be fast-tracked and completed in record time," he said.
The Chief Minister stressed that the investigation will be thorough and free of loopholes to ensure a strong prosecution. He said the government will make every effort to secure the harshest punishment under the law.
Fadnavis acknowledged public anger over such heinous crimes but emphasised that justice must follow due legal process.
"People may demand instant punishment, but in a democracy, action must be taken within the framework of law," he said, the news agency reported.
The case has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties over law and order in the state. Responding to the allegations, Fadnavis said criticism is part of the Opposition's role but accused them of failing to reflect on their own track record while in power.
"It is ironic that those linked to past irregularities are now lecturing us on law and order," he added, PTI reported.
Former Maharashtra home minister and NCP (SP) leader Anil Deshmukh on Sunday called for the immediate implementation of the Shakti Act, questioning if the "fear of law" existed under the Devendra Fadnavis-led government, citing the rape and murder of two minors in Pune district.
(With PTI inputs)
