Nagpur: Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council Neelam Gorhe called for strictest punishment for the accused in the rape of an 11-year-old girl in Bhandara district. Describing the incident as a stain on humanity, the Shiv Sena leader also called for rapid rehabilitation for the victim.The incident took place on March 18 in Lakhandur taluka in Bhandara district. According to the police report, 18-year-old Ishwar Kudegave lured three young girls, including the victim, to get into his car on the pretext of going for a drive. He took them to a remote forest area, where he allegedly raped the 11-year-old while the other two minors were present. When the girls attempted to resist and call for help, Kudegave allegedly threatened to kill them and warned them to remain silent.Charges have been filed against Kudegave under the Pocso Act and relevant sections of the BNS. In an appeal to Bhandara police commissioner Nurool Hasan and inspector general of police Nagpur Range Sandip Patil, Gorhe called for a fast-tracked trial in a special court, a thorough investigation, and the swift filing of a comprehensive chargesheet to ensure the accused receives the maximum penalty and is not granted bail on technicalities.She said the victim should receive medical care and immediate psychological counseling. Gorhe instructed the district women and child development officer to compile a Social Investigation Report and ensure the girl benefits fully from the Manodhairya Scheme for her complete physical and mental recovery.To prevent such crimes in rural areas, Gorhe urged enhanced awareness campaigns, activation of Child Protection Committees, and wider dissemination of the child helpline number 1098.The authorities must ensure that the perpetrator is punished swiftly, and the innocent child receives full support for her recovery, Gorhe said.The MLC also called for strict action in two other cases, an acid attack on a 12-year-old in Sangamner and the rape and murder of a toddler in Ambajogai, Beed district.
