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Latur School Sexual Harassment Case: Founder-Principal Arrested, SIT Formed to Investigate Allegations Involving Minor Students
Latur, Maharashtra | October 30, 2026
A serious sexual harassment case involving minor schoolgirls has triggered widespread public concern in Latur, Maharashtra, after police arrested Bashir Usman Shaikh (54), founder and principal of Adarsh International School.
According to police reports, a complaint was registered at the MIDC Police Station on October 4, 2026, following allegations that a minor student had been sexually harassed on the school premises.
Arrest and Legal Action
Police launched a search operation after the accused reportedly went missing following the registration of the case. Special police teams searched several locations, including Udgir, Omarga, Pune, Panvel and Palghar.
Shaikh was arrested on October 7 and subsequently produced before a local court. The case was registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Special Investigation Team Formed
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, Latur Superintendent of Police Amol Tambe constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by woman IPS officer Meghna IN.
The team has been tasked with investigating the allegations and identifying whether other students may have experienced similar misconduct.
Police have also appealed to potential victims and their families to come forward, assuring them that their identities and safety will be protected.
Public Protests and Wider Allegations
The incident sparked protests involving parents, women and social activists, who demanded strict legal action and a comprehensive investigation.
During the protests, some individuals claimed that more than 100 girls could have been affected and raised allegations about incidents spanning several decades.
However, these figures and historical claims have not been independently established or officially confirmed by police. They remain allegations requiring investigation.
A Serious Question About Student Safety
The case has raised important questions about child protection, institutional accountability and the responsibility of educational authorities.
Schools are expected to provide children with a safe environment where they can learn without fear. Parents must be able to trust the institutions responsible for their children’s education and protection.
The investigation must remain impartial, evidence-based and transparent, while protecting the privacy and dignity of the minor complainant and any other potential victims.
The accused is entitled to due process, and the allegations must be established through the legal process. Anyone found guilty must face the punishment prescribed by law.
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