Did Forensic Evidence Confirm That a Woman Doctor Authored Her Suicide Note? CM Fadnavis Speaks Out
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Nagpur, December 9 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, revealed on Tuesday that an investigation led by a female IPS officer is actively ongoing regarding the tragic suicide of a doctor from Phaltan hospital. Alongside this, a judicial inquiry is also examining other related aspects of the case.
In response to a question from BJP member Amit Satam, the Chief Minister informed the Assembly that forensic analyses have concluded the woman died by hanging rather than strangulation.
Moreover, the handwriting on the suicide note was confirmed to belong to the deceased, he added.
Fadnavis stated that the investigation remains ongoing, and there are efforts to submit a charge sheet within the mandated 60 days instead of the usual 90.
The Chief Minister disclosed, "The investigation has also uncovered that Sub-Inspector Gopal Badane and a man named Prashant Bankar, the son of her landlord, had deceived the doctor. Badane has been involved in her molestation, and both have been arrested."
He expressed concern over attempts to politicize the situation, deeming it unfortunate. He reassured the Assembly that the safety of women is a top priority for the government, urging opposition parties not to conflate women's security with the Ladki Bahin Yojana, as they should not be compared.
Additionally, he mentioned that approximately 2.5 crore eligible beneficiaries have been enrolled in the Ladki Bahin Yojana.
CM Fadnavis explained that since the woman doctor was engaged on an 11-month contract, the government cannot offer employment to her family member on compassionate grounds. However, he promised that the government would provide maximum support to the family of the deceased.
Regarding the implementation of the Shakti Act aimed at reducing crime and violence against women, CM Fadnavis noted that the new legislative measures cover most provisions of the Shakti Act, with plans to include the remaining aspects.
The death of the Phaltan doctor has sent shockwaves across the state, especially as she left a note on her palm accusing two individuals of inflicting distress upon her.
The note claimed that PSI Gopal Badane had repeatedly raped her and that Prashant Bankar had subjected her to mental harassment and abuse.
She indicated both men had tormented her mentally for several months.
Family members and opposition leaders have alleged that the doctor had previously complained about being pressured by police and political figures (including an MP) to alter post-mortem findings and issue false medical fitness certificates.
In the aftermath, PSI Gopal Badane was suspended, and both he and Prashant Bankar were arrested. Charges of rape and abetment to suicide have been filed against the two.