Beed Crime: Outrage Erupts Over Sexual Harassment Case, Women’s Commission Orders Strict Action

A serious case of alleged sexual harassment involving a 17-year-old student from the Umakiran Educational Complex in Beed has sparked widespread outrage and protests. The student has accused Director Vijay Pawar and teacher Prashant Khatokar of repeated harassment over the past year, triggering strong reactions from citizens and social organizations.

According to the student’s statement to the police, Prashant Khatokar allegedly touched her inappropriately and took obscene photos. When she informed Vijay Pawar, he too reportedly behaved in a similar manner. Disturbed and frightened, the student said she was afraid to attend classes.

In response, the Beed police acted swiftly, sealing the educational institute and seizing its CCTV footage. The action was taken under the directives of the Maharashtra State Women’s Commission, which has taken serious note of the matter.

Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar has demanded strict action against the accused and assured that justice will be served. “Such incidents will not be tolerated. We are committed to ensuring the safety of girls and young women across the state,” she said.

On Friday, the incident led to angry demonstrations outside the educational complex. Social activists and citizens, including Adv. Sangita Dhase, Prof. Sachin Ubale, Varsha Jagdale, Mohan Aghav, and Mauli Sirsat, staged a protest demanding the immediate arrest of the culprits and a permanent closure of the institute.

To maintain law and order during the protest, local police deployed additional forces. Adding fuel to public anger, photos of Vijay Pawar, who is reportedly the state vice-president of an educational organization, posing with prominent political leaders went viral on social media. In reaction, the Swabhimani organization has called for an academic shutdown across Beed city.

Meanwhile, the police have launched a deeper investigation into the case and are also probing other potential incidents involving the same individuals. Authorities have appealed to any other victims to come forward and lodge formal complaints. This incident has raised urgent concerns about student safety in private educational institutions and the need for stricter oversight and accountability.