Badlapur Sexual Assault Case: Bombay High Court Asks State to Look Into Rehabilitation Support for Parents of Deceased Accused

The Bombay High Court on Thursday continued to express concern over the hardships faced by Akshay Shinde’s parents, who are enduring severe social and financial difficulties after their son died in a police encounter following his involvement in the Badlapur sexual assault case. The Court acknowledged the parents’ dire situation, which has been worsened by their social ostracization and homelessness.
A Division Bench of Justices Revati Mohite-Dere and PK Chavan listened to the parents’ testimony, revealing that they now live on the streets of Kalyan, relying on begging to survive. The family’s house had been sealed by the bank after they defaulted on loan repayments, further deepening their financial crisis. The couple, once employed in housekeeping and manual labor, expressed their inability to find work due to the stigma attached to their son’s actions.
The Court questioned the Maharashtra government about possible measures to rehabilitate the family, including providing employment, housing, and security. “They are not the accused. Why should they suffer? They should not be punished,” the Bench remarked, underlining that the parents should not face additional hardship because of their son’s actions.
Despite their need for protection, Shinde’s parents had declined police security, fearing it would impact their ability to earn a living. The Court acknowledged this concern and suggested exploring options for relocating the family out of Badlapur to ensure their safety without hindering their livelihood.
The Court directed the police to assess the family’s security risk and determine whether protection is needed, ensuring it does not interfere with their daily activities. The Maharashtra government was also urged to consider creating opportunities for the parents, including employment or social service work, to provide them with a sustainable livelihood.
“There must be some scheme for providing jobs to them or some social service work,” the Court remarked. The matter has been adjourned for further hearing on January 13, 2025.