In a dramatic and desperate protest, the mother and partner of a murdered Nanded youth attempted to set themselves on fire outside the district collectorate on Wednesday. The women were protesting what they called deliberate inaction against two police constables they accuse of instigating the brutal killing.
A Desperate Cry for Justice
Sangeeta Tate, the mother of slain youth Saksham Tate, and his partner, Aanchal Mamidwar, tried to commit self-immolation outside the Nanded district collectorate. They alleged that two constables from Ittwara police station had instigated the murder and that no action had been taken against them despite repeated pleas.
Police personnel present at the spot intervened swiftly and prevented the women from carrying out the extreme step. The incident created significant tension at the collector's office, prompting senior officers to rush to the location to assess the situation.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Following the incident, Nanded Superintendent of Police Abinash Kumar met with the two women. He informed them that a high-level inquiry against the two accused constables is already in progress. "Strict action will follow depending on the findings," Kumar assured them.
In a significant development, Kumar revealed that the police have moved a proposal to invoke the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against the accused in the murder case, in addition to the existing charges. He also stated that police protection has been provided to the victim's family for their safety. After being briefed on these steps, the two women expressed satisfaction.
However, sources indicated that as a precautionary measure, preventive legal action would be initiated against Sangeeta Tate and Aanchal Mamidwar for attempting suicide outside a government office.
Background of the Brutal Murder
The case dates back to November 27, when Saksham Tate was brutally murdered in a dispute stemming from his intercaste relationship with Aanchal Mamidwar. He was shot, and his head was smashed with a stone. The alleged perpetrators, including Aanchal's father, brothers, and other associates, have all been arrested.
The case garnered national attention after Aanchal Mamidwar performed a posthumous marriage with Saksham Tate. She has consistently alleged that on the day of the crime, the two constables instigated her brother to kill Saksham and assured him of police protection.
The family and Aanchal have repeatedly demanded the registration of offences against the constables. Earlier this month, they submitted representations to the district collector, the superintendent of police, and the special inspector general. They had warned that if no action was taken against the two constables by December 24, they would resort to extreme steps.
Speaking to reporters in Nanded after Wednesday's incident, Aanchal stated that with no action forthcoming, they attempted self-immolation. She warned that they would repeat the step if immediate action is not initiated against the errant policemen.
The investigation into the murder and the alleged role of the police is continuing. Authorities have stated that further decisions will be made soon, following the inquiry report.
