Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi has strongly condemned the alleged rape and suicide of a woman doctor in Maharashtra, describing it as an “institutional murder” and a tragedy that “should shake the conscience of any civilised society.” The Congress leader accused the ruling BJP government of fostering an environment where criminals enjoy protection under political power. He said the young doctor, who dedicated her life to serving others, fell victim to individuals emboldened by corruption and misuse of authority.

In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi alleged that some influential persons with links to the BJP had also tried to pressure the doctor into corruption. He said the case exposes the “inhumane and callous face” of the current government, where the protectors of law are themselves accused of committing heinous crimes. Extending his solidarity to the victim’s family, he stressed that such crimes reflect a deep rot in the system that prioritizes power over justice.

The doctor, who hailed from Beed district and worked at a government hospital in Satara, was found dead in a Phaltan hotel room. Her suicide note, written on her palm, accused police sub-inspector Gopal Badane of repeatedly raping her and software engineer Prashant Bankar of mental harassment. Both men have since been arrested, and police have registered a case of rape and abetment to suicide. Rahul Gandhi has called for swift justice and assured the victim’s family that the Congress party stands firmly with them in their fight for truth.