Maharashtra’s political corridors erupted in fury after Congress leader Nana Patole spotlighted a barbaric acid attack on a minor student in the state assembly. The Class 6 girl, aged 11-13, was doused with acid by an unknown assailant en route from school to her home in Vadgaon Pan, Sangamner, Ahmednagar, on March 17.
Describing the aftermath, Patole painted a grim picture: the child’s face is horribly disfigured, with fears of irreversible eye damage, and she remains in serious condition. He lambasted the government, stating, ‘Even during assembly sessions, girls aren’t safe in Savitribai Phule’s Maharashtra. This exposes the home department’s utter incompetence and raises serious doubts over policing.’
Emphasizing the family’s vulnerability—father deceased, mother a daily laborer—Patole appealed for comprehensive medical support, from current care at Pravara Nagar’s private hospital to advanced treatment in Mumbai, covering plastic surgery and beyond. He insisted on the attacker’s swift arrest, as the culprit remains on the run.
Vijay Wadettiwar echoed the outrage, labeling it a ‘soul-shattering tragedy’ and accusing corrupt police of emboldening criminals. ‘When law enforcers are corrupt, perpetrators roam fearlessly. The government watches silently as atrocities on young women surge,’ he said.
Speaker Rahul Narwekar intervened, ordering immediate government attention and a full report in the house. This tragedy calls for stringent action to safeguard vulnerable children and prevent future horrors.