Satara: The mysterious death of a 29-year-old doctor in Satara has shaken the state, triggering widespread outrage and a storm of questions over abuse and accountability. The doctor, who worked at Phaltan Sub-District Hospital, was found dead in her hotel room on Thursday.
Her suicide note, written on her hand, accuses a police officer of sexual assault and a software engineer of mental harassment, setting off an intense investigation and public uproar.
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Suicide Note Alleges Harassment and Assault
In her final note, the doctor alleged that Prashant Bankar, a software engineer and son of her landlord, had subjected her to mental harassment. She also accused Gopal Badane, a police sub-inspector, of sexually assaulting her.
The suicide note has become the focal point of public anger, highlighting issues of abuse and exploitation by individuals in positions of trust and authority.
Suspects Arrested
Following the investigation, both accused have been taken into custody. Bankar was apprehended at a farmhouse near Pune on Friday night.
Meanwhile, Badane surrendered voluntarily at Phaltan Rural Police Station, according to Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi. Police sources confirmed that the doctor and Bankar had been in a personal relationship before her death.
Family Speaks Out
As per the report by Hindustan Times, Bankar’s sister revealed that her brother and the doctor had rekindled their relationship last month when Bankar fell ill with dengue and received treatment from her. She added that the doctor had been in frequent contact with Bankar a day before her death, and that call and message records had been shared with the police as part of the investigation.
The family further alleged that following a fallout between the doctor and Bankar, Bankar’s father had allegedly sought Badane’s intervention in the matter, leading to further complications.
Political Controversy Emerges
The case has also attracted political attention after reports emerged that the deceased doctor had earlier told a committee investigating harassment that she was pressured to “cooperate” in official work by personal assistants of a Member of Parliament.
While she did not name the MP in her submission, opposition leaders have accused former BJP MP from Madha, Ranjitsinh Naik Nimbalkar, of exerting undue influence. Naik has denied the allegations, terming them “baseless claims.”
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Public Outrage and Demand for Justice
The doctor’s suicide note has sparked outrage across the state, with citizens demanding strict action against those responsible. Activists and social organizations have called for stronger protections for women, particularly in workplaces like hospitals where they are vulnerable to harassment and exploitation.
Satara police have assured a thorough investigation, stating that both suspects will be interrogated and legal proceedings will follow. The case has reignited discussions about accountability of law enforcement personnel and the urgent need for robust mechanisms to prevent harassment and assault.