Maharashtra Deputy CM Fadnavis Orders Urgent Action in Doctor Suicide Case as Accused Policeman Remains Fugitive

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has pledged that all individuals involved in the alleged abetment of suicide of a female doctor in Satara will face consequences, emphasizing the gravity of the situation that demands comprehensive investigation.

During a media interaction following an event in Dadar, Fadnavis noted that the victim's final message, written on her palm, indicated the severe psychological distress she experienced.

"The officer implicated in this case was suspended yesterday and an investigation has commenced. Anyone connected to this tragedy, whether directly or indirectly, will be held accountable," stated the Chief Minister, while criticizing Opposition parties for politicizing the incident.

In a significant development on Saturday, Satara Police apprehended Prashant Bankar, one of two individuals named by the deceased victim who served as a medical officer at Phaltan Sub-District Hospital.

Bankar, employed as a software engineer, was accused of mental harassment by the doctor, who resided as a tenant in property owned by Bankar's father. The second accused, Sub-Inspector Gopal Badne, whom the doctor alleged committed repeated sexual assault, remains fugitive.

According to police reports, the doctor reserved a hotel room on Wednesday night due to the remote location of her official residence from the hospital. She was discovered unresponsive the following evening, prompting an investigation.

Vaishali Kaduskar, Additional SP of Satara, acknowledged institutional failures, stating: "Her life might have been saved had timely action been taken on her complaints."

The victim's cousin revealed that for approximately a year, the doctor had been pressured by law enforcement and individuals with political connections to manipulate post-mortem findings and issue preferred medical fitness certificates.

"She endured immense pressure," the cousin stated.

The incident has evolved into a political controversy as well.

"Maharashtra previously maintained a reputation as the safest state for women. What has changed now?" questioned Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, connecting this case to a recent female homicide in Mumbai.

Ambadas Danve, a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, referenced documents allegedly submitted by the victim to authorities requesting action in June and August this year, describing it as a case involving "intense political pressure."

Former Congress minister Yashomati Thakur challenged the government: "If you cannot protect Maharashtra, step down."