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Rape and murder of 4-year-old in Pune triggers protests, highway blockade; prior cases noted
A four-year-old girl in Pune district was sexually assaulted and murdered by a 65-year-old labourer. CCTV footage aided the quick arrest, while protests led to a highway blockade; the accused has prior cases dating back to 1998 and 2015, both acquitted.
Why It Matters
The case has sparked mass protests and raised concerns about child protection and accountability in prior criminal cases.
Timeline
4 Events
Protests and highway blockade in Pune (Pune-Bengaluru highway)
May 1, 2026
Hundreds of protesters gathered at a police chowki and on the Pune-Bengaluru highway Friday night, demanding strict action against the accused.
Incident: 4-year-old girl sexually assaulted and murdered; CCTV captures accused; arrest within an hour
May 1, 2026
In a village in Bhor tehsil, a four-year-old girl was sexually assaulted and murdered after being lured with food. CCTV footage captured the accused with the child, and police said he was arrested within an hour of receiving information.
Acquittal in 2015 POCSO case
2015
The accused faced a POCSO case registered in 2015 and was acquitted.
Prior acquittal in 1998 case
1998
The accused faced a criminal case in 1998 and was acquitted.