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Govt to seek death penalty, fast-track Pune child rape-murder case, says Fadnavis
On May 1, 2026, a 65-year-old man with a criminal record was arrested in Pune district for the alleged rape and murder of a four-year-old in Bhor. Protests followed, and on May 3, 2026, Chief Minister Fadnavis announced the government would seek capital punishment and fast-track the trial, amid opposition criticism.
Why It Matters
The case has sparked public outrage and raises questions about capital punishment, speedy trials, and law and order in Maharashtra.
Timeline
4 Events
Fadnavis pledges death penalty and fast-tracked trial
May 3, 2026
On May 3, 2026, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told reporters in Nagpur that the government will seek capital punishment for the accused and will fast-track the trial to finish in record time. He said the probe will be watertight, the government will cooperate with the victim's family, and that public hanging is not permissible in a democracy.
Opposition criticism of Maharashtra government
May 3, 2026
Leaders from opposition parties criticized the Maharashtra government over law and order in the state and demanded strict action against the accused.
Protests in Bhor following incident
May 1, 2026
Following the arrest, hundreds of villagers staged protests in the Bhor area demanding action against the accused.
Arrest in Pune child rape-murder case
May 1, 2026
Police arrested a 65-year-old man with a criminal record on May 1, 2026, in connection with the alleged sexual assault and murder of a four-year-old child in Bhor tehsil, Pune district.