Vaishnavi Hagawane Case: The Maharashtra State Commission for Women has raised serious concerns over the conduct of defense lawyers in the sensitive Vaishnavi Hagawane dowry death case. In a letter addressed to the Secretary of the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar pointed out that the public statements made by some advocates have violated professional boundaries.(Vaishnavi Hagawane Case)
Vaishnavi Hagawane, a young woman from Pune, tragically died by suicide due to alleged dowry harassment. While the legal proceedings are underway, the Commission observed that certain lawyers representing the accused have made comments in the media that are not only insensitive but also in violation of the Advocates Act, 1961.
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Chakankar emphasized the psychological impact such statements can have on the victim’s family. She appealed to the Bar Council to urgently look into this matter and take corrective steps. The letter urged the Council to create and implement a clear set of guidelines for lawyers, especially when dealing with cases of domestic abuse, suicide, or crimes against women.
“The judicial process must run its course, but it is equally important to protect the dignity and mental health of the affected families,” Chakankar stated. She also stressed that the legal fraternity should exercise restraint and sensitivity, particularly in matters involving emotional trauma.
The Women’s Commission has requested the Bar Council to take this issue seriously and initiate action where needed. It has also called for the formulation of a structured policy to prevent such incidents in future high-profile or emotionally charged cases.
