File photo
NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi on Sunday condemned the alleged rape and suicide of Maharashtra doctor , calling it “a tragedy that should shake the conscience of any civilised society”. The Congress leader accused the ruling BJP government for creating an environment where “criminals are shielded by power.””A promising doctor daughter, who aspired to alleviate the suffering of others, fell victim to the torment of criminals entrenched in a corrupt system and power structure. The very authorities tasked with protecting the public from criminals committed the most heinous crime against this innocent woman—raping and exploiting her. According to reports, some influential individuals linked to the BJP also attempted to pressure her into corruption,” Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X.Rahul said that the case revealed “the inhumane and callous face of this BJP government.” The Congress leader expressed support for the family and demanded justice for the doctor.”We stand firmly with the victim’s family in this fight for justice. For every daughter of India—no more fear, only justice,” he said. The doctor, hailing from Beed district in the Marathwada region of central Maharashtra and posted at a government hospital in Satara district, was found hanging in a hotel room in Phaltan town.In the suicide note written on her palm, she alleged that police sub-inspector Badane raped her on multiple occasions, while Bankar, a software engineer, mentally harassed her.Police have arrested sub-inspector Gopal Badane and software engineer Prashant Bankar in connection with the case.A case of rape and abetment of suicide had been registered against the duo in Phaltan in Satara district.