Political Storm Erupts After Maharashtra Doctor's Suicide Note Mentions Former BJP MP

The suicide of a female doctor in Maharashtra's Satara district has ignited a major political controversy, with opposition parties demanding a thorough investigation while accusing the state government of protecting powerful individuals. The doctor, who worked at a sub-district hospital, was discovered hanging in a hotel room in Phaltan town on Thursday evening. Her suicide note, written on her palm, contained allegations of rape against a police officer and mental harassment by a tech worker. She also referenced a former MP in a separate four-page letter.

During his visit to Phaltan on Sunday to launch development initiatives, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis claimed there were attempts to prevent his attendance amid allegations involving former BJP MP Ranjitsinh Naik Nimbalkar and local MLA Sachin Patil. Fadnavis stated, "There are claims that former MP Ranjitsinh Naik Nimbalkar and local MLA Sachin Patil are connected to this case. Had I harbored even slight suspicions, I would have canceled my visit." He emphasized his refusal to allow politicization of the tragedy.

At the event, the Chief Minister openly supported the former MP, saying, "Ranjit Dada, you need to work much more. Don't worry, we stand behind you with complete support."

Congress Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi issued a forceful condemnation, describing the doctor's death as "a tragedy that shakes the conscience of any civilized society." Gandhi characterized the suicide as "an institutional murder" and accused the BJP government of shielding criminals while failing to ensure women's safety. "We firmly support the victim's family in their pursuit of justice," he added.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve criticized Fadnavis for appearing alongside Nimbalkar and "defending him before investigations are complete." He questioned, "If a woman names a former BJP MP in her suicide note and we call for action, is that considered political?" Danve accused authorities of attempting to damage the victim's reputation and threatened statewide protests unless a fair investigation is conducted.

Danve highlighted portions of the suicide note that allegedly mention two personal assistants of the former MP pressuring the doctor to declare an accused individual, Malhari Channe, medically fit. "If the Chief Minister himself provides a clean chit, what investigation will officers conduct?" Danve asked, calling for a Special Investigation Team led by an officer from outside Satara to ensure impartiality.

Police have arrested software engineer Prashant Bankar, whom the doctor accused of mental harassment, from Pune. Shortly afterward, Police Sub-Inspector Gopal Badane, accused of rape, surrendered at Phaltan Rural Police Station, as confirmed by Satara SP Tushar Doshi. Badane has been remanded to police custody until October 30, while Bankar has been placed in police custody for four days.