Satara, Oct 25 (HS):

A 29-year-old woman doctor working at a government hospital in Maharashtra’s Satara district allegedly died by suicide after facing repeated sexual assault and harassment.

The doctor’s body was found hanging in a hotel room in Phaltan on Thursday night, October 23. A note written on her palm in Marathi accused a sub-inspector from Phaltan City police station, identified as Gopal Badane, of raping her four times. The accused officer, who is also said to be a relative of the victim, has been suspended and is currently absconding, police said.

The note also named another man, Prashant Bankar, the landlord’s son, alleging he had subjected her to mental and physical harassment for several months. Bankar was arrested on Saturday, while an FIR has been registered against both accused on charges of rape and abetment to suicide, confirmed Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi.

The victim was working as a contract medical officer at a government hospital in Phaltan. Her body has been sent for post-mortem examination.

Pressured to Issue Fake Medical Reports

The victim’s cousin alleged that she was being pressured by police and political figures to prepare false medical reports declaring certain accused persons “fit.” He also claimed she was asked to produce “wrong” post-mortem reports and had earlier filed a complaint against three police personnel, including Badane.

Police, however, have denied these claims, stating that her earlier complaint was related to a different matter.

Political Reactions

The case has sparked strong political reactions in Maharashtra.

Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant accused the BJP-led Mahayuti government of failing to protect women. “The Fadnavis-led government has failed to safeguard women’s dignity and ensure their safety,” Sawant said.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare demanded that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) be formed to probe the incident independently.

Fadnavis Orders Strict Action

Responding to the outrage, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed police to take strict and immediate action against the accused. “No one will be spared, irrespective of position or relation,” he said, assuring that the investigation will be monitored closely.

The case continues to be investigated, and authorities are awaiting the post-mortem and forensic reports to determine further details.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar