The death of a 29-year-old female doctor in Satara has ignited a political controversy in Maharashtra, with the ruling BJP and opposition parties exchanging accusations. The doctor was discovered hanging in a hotel in Phaltan on October 23, with the names of a police sub-inspector and a software engineer written on her palm, citing allegations of rape and harassment. Both individuals were quickly arrested. Investigations indicated that the doctor had been involved in a troubled relationship with the software engineer, who was also the son of her landlord. She had previously lodged several complaints against police officials, claiming they pressured her to issue medical certificates and warned that they would be accountable if anything happened to her.
In the weeks leading up to her death, she wrote to senior officials alleging coercion from police and political aides, noting that she was compelled to speak with a Member of Parliament who chastised her over the phone. During a visit to Satara, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended BJP leaders Ranjitsinh Naik Nimbalkar and MLA Sachin Patil—both accused by the opposition of pressuring the doctor—asserting that there was no evidence against them. He condemned efforts to politicize the incident, promising that justice would be served. However, the opposition, led by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve, criticized Fadnavis for exonerating BJP leaders too soon while the investigation was ongoing.
Danve accused the chief minister of shielding his party members and compromising justice, referencing a letter from the deceased doctor alleging political pressure. Naik Nimbalkar dismissed these allegations as politically driven. Meanwhile, police reported that the doctor had been uncooperative during investigations, especially regarding medical examinations essential for arrests. Officials noted that her hesitance caused operational delays, although senior health officials recognized that she exhibited signs of emotional distress. Investigators are now examining the doctor’s troubled relationship with the software engineer, which reportedly worsened after he declined her marriage proposal. The opposition argues that the case reveals systemic failures encountered by women resisting political and police pressure, while the BJP accuses rivals of exploiting a tragic event for political advantage.
A special team has been established to investigate all dimensions of the case, including allegations of harassment, political interference, and negligence by authorities.
