Justice Demanded: Pune Erupts in Protest Over Heinous Crime

In a massive public demonstration, hundreds blocked the Mumbai-Bengaluru highway in Pune to protest the rape and murder of a four-year-old girl. The protest led to significant traffic disruption for about four hours.

The victim's family, along with other protesters, placed her body on the road, demanding stringent punishment for the 65-year-old suspect, who was arrested following the crime. The accused allegedly lured the child with food, assaulted her, and killed her in a horrifying incident captured on CCTV.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar assured the family of swift justice, stressing a fast-track trial. She emphasized the need for harsh punishment, even pushing for the death penalty. Efforts are underway to gather concrete evidence for a strong case.

(With inputs from agencies.)