Maharashtra Legislative Council Leader Calls for Comprehensive Support for Assaulted Minor
Kolhapur: In a strong and compassionate intervention, Neelam Gorhe, the Deputy Chairperson of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, has formally requested the state government to ensure the best possible medical care and treatment is provided free of cost to an 11-year-old girl who survived a brutal assault by her father. This urgent appeal follows a horrific incident in Banpuri village, Atpadi tehsil, Sangli district, where a man allegedly hung his two daughters—aged nine and eleven—on suspicion of theft. Tragically, the nine-year-old succumbed to her injuries, while the eleven-year-old survived but sustained significant bruises from the attack.
Gorhe's Demands for Immediate Action and Long-Term Rehabilitation
In an official statement, Gorhe outlined several critical demands directed at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the portfolio of Home Minister. Her comprehensive plan includes:
- Providing top-tier medical treatment for the survivor at government expense.
- Creating special provisions for the child's rehabilitation to ensure her physical and psychological recovery.
- Instructing the Sangli District Woman and Child Development Officer to prepare a detailed social investigation report and lead the rehabilitation efforts.
- Strengthening children protection committees in rural areas to prevent similar tragedies.
- Implementing counseling programs for parents to curb harassment and abuse of children.
Personal Outreach and Legal Push for Justice
Demonstrating personal commitment, Gorhe engaged directly with the young survivor through video conferencing, offering emotional support and reassurance. She pledged assistance for the girl's education, along with provisions for clothing and food. On the legal front, Gorhe contacted Assistant Police Inspector Vinay Bahir, urging authorities to:
- Gather robust evidence against the father to build a strong case.
- Expedite the filing of the chargesheet to avoid delays in the judicial process.
- Seek a trial in a fast track court to ensure swift justice for the victim.
The 35-year-old father, whose police custody ended on Sunday, has now been remanded to magisterial custody as the investigation progresses. Gorhe's proactive stance highlights a dual focus on immediate care for the victim and systemic reforms to protect vulnerable children in Maharashtra's rural communities.
