Lady doctor sexually abused by SI, no action taken despite filing complaints; woman commits suicide

MUMBAI: A lady doctor from a government hospital committed suicide after accusing a police sub-inspector of sexually abusing her. The incident took place on Thursday night in Satara, Maharashtra. A note found in her hand stated that the SI had raped her four times over the past five months.

In her note, the doctor said that SI Gopal Badne was responsible for her death and that he had been physically and mentally harassing her for five months. The woman worked as a medical officer at the Phaltan Sub-District Hospital.

On June 19, she had written to the Deputy Superintendent of Police, detailing the sexual assault and naming two other police officers. The letter mentioned the names of Sub-Divisional Police Inspector Patil and Assistant Police Inspector Ladputre. She had sought strict action against them, but no steps were taken at that time. Soon after, she committed suicide.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered the suspension of SI Badne. The ruling alliance, Maha Yuti, led by the BJP, promised a thorough investigation into the doctor's death. The Maharashtra State Women's Commission also directed the police to investigate why no action was taken earlier and to ensure strict punishment for those responsible.