Hundreds of protesters blocked the Mumbai–Bengaluru highway in Pune on Saturday, May 2, 2026, following the rape and murder of a three-year-old girl, bringing traffic on the busy route to a standstill for nearly four hours, according to news agency PTI.
The protest, which began in the morning, saw demonstrators demanding justice for the victim and stricter laws against sexual crimes. Police were deployed to manage the situation, and traffic was diverted to alternate routes.
The incident has sparked outrage in the city, with local residents and activists calling for a swift investigation and severe punishment for the accused. The Pune police have confirmed that an investigation is underway and a suspect has been detained.
This case has reignited debates about child safety in India, with many demanding harsher penalties for crimes against minors. The protest ended peacefully after four hours, with authorities assuring the crowd of a thorough probe.
