The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (Central MARD) has condemned the suicide of the 28-year-old doctor who was practising at the Sub-District Hospital in Phaltan, Satara. The doctors’ body alleged that she was driven to take the extreme step after sustaining mental and physical harassment by the two accused named by her.
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Central MARD stated that the doctor had repeatedly complained about harassment by Sub-inspector Gopal Badane and a software engineer, but no action was taken despite clear signs of distress. The association said that in her suicide note, the doctor had directly named those responsible for the harassment.
“It is shocking that even after the Chief Minister’s directions for immediate and strict action, both the accused are yet to be arrested,” the letter, written on October 25 stated, adding that the inaction has angered the medical fraternity and raised concerns about the safety and dignity of doctors working in public hospitals.
Badane and the software engineer were later arrested.
The association has demanded probe into the case by the crime investigation department (CID) or a special investigation team (SIT)-led judicial inquiry to ensure a fair and transparent investigation. It has also sought a time-bound probe, preservation of all digital and physical evidence, and accountability of administrative officers who allegedly ignored the victim doctor’s complaints.
Central MARD has urged the government to ensure implementation of Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) and Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) across all state-run health institutions, and to establish mental health and grievance redressal mechanisms for doctors facing workplace stress.
As a mark of protest and solidarity, the resident doctors across Maharashtra observed a Black Ribbon Protest on October 25 by wearing black ribbons while on duty. The association warned that if the government fails to act swiftly, it will intensify its agitation through statewide protests and non-cooperation movements.
“The medical fraternity stands united in demanding justice, accountability, and protection for every doctor serving the people,” the statement signed by Dr Sachin Patil (President), Dr Suyash Dhavane (General Secretary), and Dr Deepak Kavhar (State Convenor) said.
Copies of the letter have also been sent to deputy CMs Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde, Health Minister Prakash Abitkar, Satara Guardian Minister Shambhuraj Desai, and Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi.
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