MUMBAI: A woman doctor in Phaltan, Satara district, died by suicide after leaving a note inscribed on her palm accusing two police officers of sexual exploitation, harassment, and mental torture.
In the note, the 28-year-old doctor alleged that Police Sub-Inspector Gopal Badane raped her five times, while Police Inspector Prashant Bankar harassed and mentally tortured her over a period of four months. The note has been sent for a forensic audit, police said.
“The doctor had complained to her seniors but received no justice, which reportedly led her to take this extreme step,” said a Satara police official. She was found dead in a hotel room in Phaltan.
Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi confirmed that a case has been registered against Badane and Bankar. Both officers have been suspended and are currently absconding, with teams formed to trace them.
Relatives of the doctor alleged that Badane and his associates pressured her to alter medical reports. “She was under constant pressure, which ultimately drove her to end her life,” said her brother.
NCP MP Supriya Sule described the incident as “extremely serious” and demanded a fair and thorough investigation. “Her suicide note clearly mentions mental torture and her complaints being ignored. Apathy in the system forced her to take this extreme step. Those responsible must be punished. It is the duty of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the Home portfolio, to ensure the safety and security of women,” Sule said.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushama Andhare said, “The police are meant to provide security. If they are committing rape and torture, who will protect the people? The Fadnavis-led government has failed in its duty to maintain law and order in Maharashtra.”
(If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call Sneha Foundation - 04424640050, Tele Manas - 14416 (available 24x7) or iCall, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences' helpline - 02225521111, which is available Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm.)
