Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar proposed on Saturday that individuals convicted of crimes against women should face castration as punishment. His comments were made during an official event in Yavatmal promoting the Mahayuti government's 'Ladki Bahin' scheme for women. Pawar asserted that the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP coalition government in Maharashtra is committed to delivering severe justice for those guilty of such offenses.

Pawar’s remarks come in the wake of widespread outrage over a recent sexual assault incident in Badlapur, where two kindergarten girls were reportedly attacked. Speaking at the event, Pawar emphasized that the government will not tolerate crimes against women and revealed that a bill proposing harsher penalties for such offenses has been submitted to the President for approval.

"Such heinous acts against women and children should be met with the strictest legal consequences," Pawar said. He argued that severe measures are necessary to deter potential offenders. The statement has sparked considerable debate and criticism, particularly from those concerned about human rights and legal standards.

The Badlapur incident has intensified public and political scrutiny, with opposition leaders criticizing the government's handling of women’s safety and protection issues.