Thane: Kalyan Residents Block Ambulance Demanding Death Penalty For Accused In 13-Year-Old’s Death

Thane, 27th December 2024: On Thursday, hundreds of Kalyan residents attempted to block the ambulance carrying the body of a 13-year-old girl for her last rites, insisting that the rituals should only take place after the accused received the death penalty. The situation was resolved after police, along with social workers and local BJP MLA Sulabha Gaikwad, persuaded the crowd, allowing the body to be taken for cremation. Thousands gathered at the funeral, demanding justice and a death sentence for the accused. Upon arrival at the crematorium, residents called for an assurance of action from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. DCP Atul Zende assured the crowd that the CM had ordered the case to be fast-tracked in court and appointed a special public prosecutor.

Several people questioned how the accused, Vishal Gawli, had been released from jail despite facing three sexual assault charges. They argued that had proper evidence been gathered, he would not have been granted bail and could not have committed such a horrific crime. Later that evening, a candlelight march was held from near the girl’s house to Kolsewadi police station. That same night, DCP Zende patrolled the city, catching youths drinking in public places, making them perform sit-ups, and releasing them with a warning.