Bhopal/Narsinghpur, Aug 7 (IANS) Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, Umang Singhar on Friday demanded a fast-track trial and the harshest punishment for the accused arrested in the alleged rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in the state’s Narsinghpur district, while police said they would seek the maximum punishment in the case.
The demand came a day after 28-year-old Annu Yadav was arrested for allegedly abducting, raping and murdering the Class III student in Gotegaon area of the district.
In a statement, LoP Singhar described the incident as “heart-rending” and alleged that the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh had failed to ensure the safety of women and children.
“The abduction, rape and brutal murder of an eight-year-old innocent girl is extremely painful. The incident has shaken the entire Madhya Pradesh,” he said.
The Congress leader demanded that the case be tried in a fast-track court and the accused be awarded the strictest punishment.
He also sought justice, financial assistance and all possible support for the victim’s family.
“The safety of daughters cannot be ensured through hollow speeches and claims. It requires a strong law-and-order system, speedy justice and an accountable government,” Singhar said.
Meanwhile, Narsinghpur Superintendent of Police, Rishikesh Meena, said the investigation was progressing swiftly and the police would press for the maximum punishment.
“Our investigators and prosecutors will work for the sternest possible punishment for the arrested man. We will get the trial fast-tracked and work towards securing the harshest possible punishment,” Meena told IANS.
According to police, the girl went missing after school on Wednesday, following which multiple teams were formed to trace her.
During the investigation, she was found to have been last seen with her neighbour, Annu Yadav.
The accused allegedly tried to flee on a motorcycle when police tracked him down but was caught after the vehicle skidded off the road.
Police said he initially tried to mislead investigators but later allegedly confessed to the crime during questioning.
The accused allegedly went to the girl’s school during the lunch break and told her that her father had sent him to take her home. He allegedly took the child to a nearby forest, raped her and strangled her before fleeing.
The girl’s body was recovered on the basis of information provided by the accused, police said. Police said that further investigation was underway.
–IANS
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