The unsettling suicide of a 29-year-old doctor in Satara, Maharashtra, has brought to light a disturbing series of events. Investigations into the case have revealed serious allegations, including rape, a tense standoff with local police, and complex personal relationships, painting a grim picture of the circumstances leading to her death.
The doctor, who was serving as a medical officer on contract at a government hospital in Phaltan, Satara, was found deceased in her hotel room. A note left on her palm detailed harrowing accusations against Phaltan City Police Station sub-inspector Gopal Badane for allegedly raping her multiple times, and against her landlord’s son, Prashant Bankar, for five months of physical and mental harassment. Both individuals have since been arrested.
Key Developments in the Case:
- Involved Relationship: Evidence suggests the doctor was in a relationship with Prashant Bankar, her landlord’s son, for several months prior to her death. Their relationship reportedly soured recently, leading to increased tension. Bankar’s sister claims they had reconnected shortly before her death, with the doctor making numerous calls to Bankar the day she passed away.
- Marriage Proposal and Rejection: Police investigation revealed intimate chats and call records indicating the doctor was possessive in her relationship with Bankar. Bankar’s father had allegedly sought the assistance of sub-inspector Gopal Badane due to his son avoiding the doctor. Bankar’s sister also stated that the doctor proposed marriage to him, but he refused, claiming to see her only as an elder sister. He suggested her name in the suicide note was out of spite for his rejection. Bankar’s brother denied the harassment allegations, citing the doctor’s emotional distress and questioning the claims given she celebrated Diwali with his family.
- Allegations Against the Police Officer: The doctor’s note alleged that sub-inspector Gopal Badane, whom she identified as a relative from Beed, had raped her four times. Badane has been arrested following Bankar’s arrest. The doctor had previously filed complaints against three police officers, including Badane.
- Complaints of Police Pressure: Investigations revealed the doctor had previously alerted senior officers about alleged pressure from police officials and political interference. She claimed she was coerced into issuing fitness certificates for accused individuals brought to the hotel, but her complaints reportedly went unaddressed. She also alleged that police officers, including Badane, threatened her directly.
- Police Counter-Allegations: In response to the doctor’s complaints, police officials alleged that she was uncooperative in issuing fitness certificates, often deeming accused persons unfit without sufficient grounds, which led to delays in arrests and interrogations. Police stated she should have been available 24/7 for medical formalities and that her refusal necessitated seeking her replacement.
- Doctor’s Warning: The doctor had documented her allegations and threats in a four-page statement to a committee investigating the matter. She reiterated her claims of being targeted due to her regional background and issued a stark warning: “if anything happens to me, the police will be responsible.” A senior doctor, however, denied receiving any formal complaint from her regarding harassment by police officials.