Phaltan Doctor Case: PSI Gopal Badane Dismissed from Maharashtra Police After Misconduct Findings

Maharashtra Police dismissed PSI Gopal Badane over misconduct in the Phaltan doctor death case after allegations of harassment and abuse of power; SIT continues investigation.

Satara | November 5, 2025

In a significant move, the Maharashtra Police have dismissed PSI Gopal Badane from service in connection with the death of a woman doctor from Phaltan in Satara district. The decision follows a departmental inquiry that found him guilty of serious misconduct and abuse of power. The dismissal order was issued by Special Inspector General Sunil Phulari of the Kolhapur Range under Article 311(2)(b) of the Constitution, which allows immediate termination for severe violations.

Badane had been under suspension since his arrest in October after the 28-year-old government doctor was found dead in a hotel room under suspicious circumstances. Before her death, she had reportedly written the names of two individuals on her palm, including PSI Badane, accusing them of rape and mental harassment. The incident sparked widespread outrage across Maharashtra, with doctors’ associations and women’s rights groups demanding strict action.

According to police sources, the internal review concluded that Badane’s conduct had brought disrepute to the police department and damaged public trust. Officials described his behaviour as “immoral and unbecoming of a police officer,” saying that retaining him in service would set a dangerous precedent.

The case, which initially appeared to be a suicide, has since evolved into a complex criminal investigation. Badane and another accused have been charged under sections related to rape, criminal intimidation, and abetment of suicide. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) handling the case has reportedly collected crucial digital and forensic evidence, including phone data and communication records.

Public pressure on the police intensified after videos of protests outside the Phaltan Police Station went viral, led by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare. She had alleged that the authorities were attempting to shield the accused and called for fast-track court proceedings. The state government later assured that the case would be treated as a priority and monitored closely.

With Badane’s dismissal, police officials have sent a clear message that misconduct within the force will not be tolerated. Senior officers stated that similar disciplinary action could follow against others found complicit in obstructing or mishandling the investigation.

The victim’s family welcomed the decision but maintained that true justice will be served only after the accused are convicted. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) has also issued a statement calling for continued transparency in the investigation and the establishment of stronger safeguards for women in the medical profession.

The Phaltan doctor’s case has become a symbol of accountability within the police system, highlighting both the vulnerability of women professionals and the urgent need for ethical reform in law enforcement.

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