Maharashtra Deputy CM Calls for Thorough Investigation into Alleged Dowry-Related Suicide

Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has urged for a thorough investigation into the tragic case of Vaishnavi Hagwane, who allegedly took her own life due to dowry harassment. The incident has raised serious concerns about domestic violence and the treatment of women in marital situations. Following the allegations made by Vaishnavi's family, Pawar has promised swift legal action and plans to appoint a special prosecutor. The case has also led to the arrest of family members attempting to evade justice. This situation sheds light on the pressing issues surrounding dowry practices in India and the need for effective law enforcement.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 24, 2025, 09:40 IST

Investigation into Vaishnavi Hagwane's Death

On Friday, Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation by the police into the alleged suicide of 26-year-old Vaishnavi Hagwane, reportedly due to dowry harassment.

Vaishnavi, the daughter-in-law of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Rajendra Hagwane, was found hanging on May 16 in the Bavdhan area of Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune district.

Her parents have alleged that they provided her husband’s family with 51 tolas (595 grams) of gold, silver, and an SUV at the time of marriage, but the Hagwane family continued to harass her, demanding ₹2 crore for land purchases.

According to Vishal Gaikwad, Deputy Commissioner of Police for Pimpri Chinchwad's second zone, Rajendra Hagwane, who has since been expelled from the NCP led by Ajit Pawar, and his son Sushil were apprehended while attempting to flee the city in the Swargate area.

After meeting with Vaishnavi's parents, Pawar stated, 'We will ensure that the case is heard promptly and reaches a logical conclusion. We also plan to appoint a special prosecutor for this case. Tomorrow, I will discuss with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Delhi whether this case should be expedited in court.'

The Deputy Chief Minister noted that Rajendra and Sushil attempted to evade arrest by switching their phones, but the police successfully apprehended them. When questioned about allegations that family members of the Hagwane family had threatened two of their daughters-in-law using the name of a senior police officer, Pawar mentioned that the officer had clarified that he had no connection to the case.

Prior to Vaishnavi's alleged suicide, her elder sister-in-law had claimed that she faced harassment and domestic violence in 2024, but the police did not take timely action.