Nation in Shock: Riteish Deshmukh Speaks Out on Pune Child Tragedy

A tragic incident in Pune involving the death of a four-year-old girl has sparked national outrage and protests. Riteish Deshmukh, currently promoting his film Raja Shivaji, has condemned the act and called for swift justice. The accused has been arrested, and the case is under judicial review. Deshmukh emphasizes the need for decisive government action and highlights the importance of existing laws to protect children. As the community mourns, the film industry stands in solidarity, urging for justice to be served promptly.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 3, 2026, 19:22 IST

Tragic Incident in Pune Shocks the Nation

A heartbreaking event in Pune has left many in disbelief and anger. A four-year-old girl was reportedly harmed and killed by a 65-year-old man in Nasrapur village on May 1. This incident has led to widespread protests, with demonstrators blocking the Mumbai-Bengaluru Highway near Navale Bridge in Pune. Authorities have arrested the suspect, and the case is now under judicial scrutiny.

Riteish Deshmukh, who recently starred as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the film Raja Shivaji, has publicly condemned this tragic event and called for strict action against the accused.

Riteish Deshmukh's Strong Condemnation

Currently, Riteish Deshmukh is busy promoting his film, Raja Shivaji, which has received a warm reception at the box office, earning over Rs 20 crore within its first two days of release. In a media interaction, he expressed his outrage over the incident in Pune, which has resonated deeply across the nation.

Deshmukh described the situation as profoundly disturbing and acknowledged the public's justified anger. He stated, “It is natural for people to feel anger. It is expected that the government will take decisive action in this matter. The case should be expedited in a fast-track court.”

He further noted that the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was vastly different from today, emphasizing the importance of existing laws to tackle such heinous acts. He concluded by stating, “In my view, the quicker a decision is reached and justice is served, the better it will be.”

Details of the Pune Case

In the case itself, the accused allegedly lured the young girl under the pretense of offering food, ultimately leading to her assault and death. Law enforcement has reviewed CCTV footage from a nearby residence, which captured the suspect with the child. Charges have been filed against him under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Following his arrest, he has been remanded in police custody until May 7.

After extensive protests from the local community, the child's final rites were conducted at a Pune crematorium, with a heavy police presence ensuring order.

About Raja Shivaji

As for the film Raja Shivaji, it features Riteish Deshmukh alongside a talented cast that includes Genelia, Abhishek Bachchan, Bhagyashree, Vidya Balan, Sanjay Dutt, and Sachin Khedekar. Stay tuned for more updates!