Satara Doctor Suicide: Palm Note Names PSI, Four-Page Letter Alleges Pressure from MP

Maharashtra Police on Saturday revealed new details in the tragic Satara doctor suicide case, indicating that timely action on her complaints could possibly have saved her life. The 29-year-old medical officer, posted on a contractual basis at a government hospital in Phaltan, was found hanging in a hotel room on Thursday night.

Palm Note and Arrest

The deceased had written a note in Marathi on her palm naming Phaltan City police sub-inspector (PSI) Gopal Badane and Prashant Bankar, her landlord’s son. The note alleged that PSI Badane had raped her four times, while Bankar harassed her physically and mentally for five months. Following the revelations, Prashant Bankar was arrested on Saturday by Satara police.

Four-Page Suicide Letter

Reports indicate the doctor also left a four-page suicide letter alleging pressure from police officials and even a member of Parliament (MP) with two personal assistants to issue fake fitness certificates for accused individuals in police cases. NDTV reported these claims, though HT.com could not independently verify them.

The letter reportedly stated that when she refused to comply, she faced repeated harassment. On one occasion, after rejecting a request, the MP’s assistants allegedly forced her to speak with the politician, who threatened her indirectly. Her cousin confirmed she had been under intense pressure from both political and police figures, particularly regarding issuing medically “fit” certificates without proper examinations.

Police Response

Satara Additional SP Vaishali Kaduskar expressed her anguish over the incident, emphasizing that timely action on her complaints or her confiding in someone could have potentially saved her life. “As a female officer, I am deeply pained over this incident,” Kaduskar said, speaking to PTI.

While the deceased reportedly lodged a complaint with the local SDPO in June-July, naming three police officials including Badane, a Satara police official clarified that the complaint was related to a different matter.

Current Status

Arrest: Prashant Bankar

Allegations in Palm Note: Rape and harassment by PSI and Bankar

Allegations in Four-Page Letter: Coercion to issue fake fitness certificates by police officials and an MP

Investigation ongoing with police and legal authorities examining all leads

The case has sparked widespread outrage, highlighting the pressures faced by medical professionals when political and law enforcement powers intersect.