A Diwali disagreement, ignored messages, and a death — Maharashtra doctor’s case takes a dark turn
Phaltan, Maharashtra – Fresh details have surfaced in the case of the Maharashtra doctor who died by suicide in a Phaltan hotel room last week. Investigators found that the doctor and her boyfriend, software engineer Prashant Bankar, had a heated argument over Diwali celebration photos just days before her death.
According to police sources, the quarrel happened on Laxmi Pujan Day when the doctor visited Bankar’s home in Satara district to celebrate Diwali. She asked him to take pictures of the rangoli she had made. However, she disliked the photos, leading to an argument that quickly escalated. She then went to a nearby temple in distress.
State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar said Bankar’s father brought her back home later that day. But that night, the doctor left again and checked into a lodge in Phaltan. She continued sending messages and photos to Bankar, expressing frustration and emotional distress. Despite repeated texts, Bankar allegedly ignored her calls and switched off his phone.
Chakankar revealed that the doctor sent multiple messages threatening to end her life. Bankar reportedly dismissed them, saying she had made such threats before. The following morning, hotel staff discovered her lifeless body. A note written on her palm accused Police Sub-Inspector Gopal Badane of rape and Bankar of mental harassment.
Both accused are now in police custody. Investigators said call detail records confirmed that the doctor had frequent contact with PSI Badane between January and March. Later, she began a close relationship with Bankar. Police are analysing her mobile data to understand the sequence of events leading up to her death.
Chakankar, after reviewing the case with local officials, said the police are examining the forensic and autopsy reports to establish the cause of death. Preliminary findings indicate suicide, but the probe continues to verify her communication history and the exact role of the accused.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra State Commission for Women has directed the Satara police to ensure a transparent and time-bound investigation. “The details shared by the accused during questioning reveal emotional strain between the two. The argument over Diwali photographs seems to have triggered the final act,” Chakankar said.
Locals in Phaltan expressed shock as the case took a disturbing turn. The doctor, described by colleagues as diligent and kind, worked at a government hospital in Satara. Her sudden death and the personal details emerging from the investigation have left the medical community unsettled.
As the probe deepens, investigators are cross-verifying text exchanges, phone records, and CCTV footage from the hotel. Police sources said evidence from the doctor’s phone may provide critical insight into her final hours.
The case has reignited debate on mental health awareness and relationship-related stress among young professionals. Authorities emphasised that the investigation will continue until every aspect — from the Diwali spat to her final messages — is fully examined.
