The profound sorrow surrounding the suspected suicide of a female doctor in Maharashtra has drawn sharp condemnation from Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. Gandhi has vehemently termed the incident an ‘institutional murder’ and is leading calls for immediate justice. The doctor was discovered deceased in a hotel room under unsettling circumstances. In a significant development, Sub-Inspector Gopal Badane, who was suspended and had been evading authorities, surrendered and was subsequently arrested. He faces severe accusations of repeatedly raping the doctor, contributing to her alleged suicide.
This is the second arrest in the ongoing investigation. Prashant Bankar, the son of the doctor’s landlord, was also taken into custody. Bankar is charged with subjecting the doctor to persistent mental distress. Both Badane and Bankar were named by the deceased in her suicide note and a message on her palm.
Rahul Gandhi took to social media to express his deep dismay, stating that the victim’s descent into despair due to ‘rape and harassment’ is an ‘unconscionable tragedy.’ He lamented the fate of a ‘promising doctor daughter’ who fell victim to a ‘corrupt system.’ Gandhi further alleged that those responsible for public safety were complicit in her suffering, citing reports of political pressure from influential BJP-affiliated individuals to influence corruption. He declared, ‘This is not a suicide—it is an institutional murder,’ asserting that the powerful ideology protecting the perpetrators must be dismantled. Gandhi pledged unwavering support to the victim’s family, demanding justice and an end to fear for women across India.
Officials confirmed that the doctor was a government medical officer serving at the Phaltan sub-district hospital. Her suicide note detailed the ordeal, accusing Sub-Inspector Badane of rape multiple times and Bankar of relentless mental anguish. She also alluded to pressure from a Member of Parliament (MP) and his staff to fabricate medical reports for individuals involved in criminal cases. Reports indicate she had filed 21 complaints with various authorities without receiving effective intervention. The note also described threats received from an MP for refusing to provide a false medical certificate.
Police are pursuing a rigorous investigation into the charges of rape, harassment, and the potential involvement of political figures. The two accused have been booked, and authorities are dedicated to uncovering all facts and ensuring accountability.