By Srinivas Iyer — Mumbai
A Mumbai sessions court has refused to discharge Mayor Ritu Rajesh Tawde from a 2016 case involving the alleged assault of municipal school teachers, ruling that there is sufficient material to proceed with trial.
Additional Sessions Judge Y.P. Manathkar observed that victims and eyewitnesses had clearly identified Tawde as the individual who allegedly assaulted them inside the school premises. The court held that witness statements and other prosecution material were adequate to frame charges, noting that the evidence created a “grave suspicion” against the accused.
Emphasising established legal principles, the judge clarified that courts are not required to conduct a detailed examination of evidence at the discharge stage. Instead, the focus is limited to determining whether a prima facie case exists, and not to undertake a “mini-trial.”
Tawde had argued for discharge citing delays in the FIR, lack of intent, and alleged political motivation. However, the prosecution relied on testimonies of injured teachers to assert her direct involvement. The case pertains to a 2016 incident at a municipal school in Vakola and will now proceed to trial.
