Protests erupt in Pune after minor’s rape and murder, highway blocked for hours

Pune: Massive protests broke out in Pune following the brutal rape and murder of a four-year-old girl, allegedly committed by a 65-year-old man. The shocking incident has triggered widespread outrage across Maharashtra, with citizens demanding swift and strict justice.

The crime took place in Nasrapur village of Bhor taluk, where the child had come to stay with her grandmother during summer holidays. According to police, the accused lured the minor to a secluded location, assaulted her, and later killed her in an attempt to destroy evidence. The body was later recovered, and the accused has been taken into custody.

Anger over the incident spilled onto the streets, with thousands of protesters gathering near Nasirpur and blocking the Pune–Bengaluru National Highway for nearly four to five hours. The blockade led to heavy traffic congestion stretching several kilometres, severely affecting commuters.

Protesters raised slogans demanding immediate capital punishment for the accused and even sought that he be handed over to the public. The agitation continued late into the night before authorities intervened and persuaded demonstrators to clear the road.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the incident and assured strict action. He stated that the case would be fast-tracked and that the government would seek the harshest possible punishment.

Political leaders, including Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar, have also demanded stringent action, calling the crime “inhuman” and urging stronger measures to prevent such incidents.

Police presence remains high in the area to maintain law and order as tensions continue.