A disturbing case in Satara, Maharashtra, where a 29-year-old doctor died by suicide, has taken a sharp political turn. The doctor, found hanging in her hotel room on October 23, left a note on her palm naming sub-inspector Gopal Badane and software engineer Prashant Bankar, accusing them of rape and harassment. Both individuals were promptly arrested.
However, the situation quickly evolved beyond a criminal investigation. Allegations of political pressure and interference surfaced, leading to a heated exchange between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition parties in the state. The doctor had previously sent letters to senior officials, expressing her concerns about being coerced by police and political figures to issue fitness certificates for accused individuals. In one chilling warning, she stated, “If anything happens to me, the police will be responsible.”
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, while visiting Satara, publicly defended BJP MP Ranjitsinh Naik Nimbalkar and MLA Sachin Patil, who were implicated by the opposition. Fadnavis asserted that there was no evidence against them and that the police were handling the investigation. This statement drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders, such as Ambadas Danve of Shiv Sena (UBT), who questioned the Chief Minister’s authority to exonerate individuals while an investigation was ongoing.
The opposition claims that the MP’s aides had pressured the doctor, even making her speak to the MP himself. They argue that the case highlights systemic failures in protecting women who resist political and police pressure. Conversely, the BJP dismissed these allegations as politically motivated attempts to defame the government.
Further investigation revealed a strained personal relationship between the doctor and Bankar, her landlord’s son, which had soured in recent months. His family claimed she was emotionally distressed. Meanwhile, police have stated the doctor was sometimes uncooperative, particularly regarding late-night medical examinations, which allegedly hindered investigations.
The Satara police have formed a special team to thoroughly investigate all aspects of the case, including the claims of political interference and the doctor’s prior complaints against law enforcement officials.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to helplines like Sumaitri (011-23389090) or Sneha Foundation (044-24640050).
Related Stories:
- Another shocking reveal in Maharashtra doctor suicide, cousin alleges second note
- Rape, standoff with local police and more – 6 big revelations in Maharashtra doctor suicide case
- Satara doctor’s suicide case: CM gives clean chit to former MP Ranjitsingh Naik Nimbalkar, MLA Sachin Patil; Opposition mounts attack on BJP
- Claims and counter-claims: Doctor alleged pressure from police and politicians; Police said she was uncooperative
- Who is Prashant Bankar? Cops say man held was in relationship with Maharashtra Satara doctor suicide