A couple connected to the kidnapping and murder of a 13-year-old girl from Kalyan was in police custody for further investigation until two days ago. The incident has now sparked political tussles in Kalyan, with leaders trading accusations against one another.
Mahesh Gaikwad, a former leader of Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in Kalyan, has alleged that BJP’s ex-MLA Ganpat Gaikwad helped the accused secure bail. Mahesh claimed that the release of the accused emboldened them, leading to this heinous crime. He further stated in the media that he and the citizens of Kalyan would not remain silent until the accused received the death penalty or justice was served. He warned of a massive agitation if Chief Minister Eknath Shinde fails to act. Additionally, Mahesh demanded an increase in police presence in Kalyan East, which has a dense population, and accused the BJP of supporting the accused, claiming that their actions encouraged lawlessness.
In response, Nana Suryavanshi, a BJP leader, denied any connection between the accused, Vishal Gawli, and the BJP. He clarified that Gawli is not a BJP worker and that joining the party requires a formal process, which Gawli had not completed. Nana also alleged that Mahesh Gaikwad’s name appeared on Gawli’s social media page, suggesting a potential link to the Shiv Sena leader. Nana stated, “We do not want to politicize this serious case.” Furthermore, BJP leader Amarjeet Mishra announced ₹1 lakh in financial aid for the victim’s family.
Police sources revealed that the medical examination of the main accused, Vishal Gawli, and his wife, Sakshi Gawli, was conducted at Central Hospital in Ulhasnagar on Friday. Statements from the accused were recorded during the examination. Authorities are also investigating a medical certificate that reportedly declared Vishal mentally ill.
The police arrested Sakshi Gawli in Kalyan on Tuesday night, while Vishal was apprehended in Shegaon, Buldhana, on Wednesday. Sakshi, Vishal’s third wife, worked at a private bank.
According to Senior Police Inspector Ashok Kadam, Vishal Gawli is a history-sheeter with four prior cases, including charges of sexual assault, outraging the modesty of women, and bodily offenses. The police initially registered an FIR under Section 137 (kidnapping) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). After the girl’s body was found, additional charges under BNS Section 103(1) (murder), 140(1), 65(2), 66, 238, and relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act were added to the case.
