• Four-year-old girl killed in brutally in Malegaon, India
• Authorities and community demand swift trial and strict punishment

Massive protests erupted in Malegaon, India, following the brutal assault and killing of a four-year-old girl.

A full shutdown was imposed across the town as thousands joined a large foot march demanding the death penalty for the arrested suspect.

The child was attacked and killed in Dongrale village on November 16.

Police have arrested one person in connection with the crime and extended their custody until November 27.

Some protesters attempted to storm the local court, but were stopped by police, officials said.

State Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal visited the victim’s family in a Malegaon village, accompanied by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange.

Zirwal described the act as “horrific” and made several commitments, including raising the case with the State Cabinet, ensuring a fast-track trial, seeking the death penalty within two months, and formally requesting the appointment of senior advocate Ujjwal Nikam as the public prosecutor.