Overview
- Additional Sessions Judge YP Manathkar rejected the plea on March 12, finding the record raises grave suspicion against the accused.
- The order permits framing of charges for assault and for using criminal force to deter public servants from their duties.
- Prosecutors cited statements from seven witnesses, including two injured teachers who identified Tawde as the assailant.
- The case traces to a July 29, 2016 confrontation at a BMC Urdu-medium school in Vakola over a teacher’s transfer, with an FIR filed on August 11.
- The defence challenges the prosecution’s case, pointing to a 13‑day FIR delay, absence of mens rea, a coincidental presence claim, and alleged political motive.