Vaishnavi Hagawane Death Case History: The tragic death of 23-year-old Vaishnavi Hagawane has sent shockwaves across Maharashtra, sparking public outrage over the persistent issue of dowry-related abuse and domestic violence. Vaishnavi, the daughter-in-law of suspended NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Rajendra Hagawane, died by suicide on May 16 at her in-laws’ residence in Bhukum, Mulshi taluka near Pune.
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What Happened on May 16?
According to the police, Vaishnavi was found hanging in her home. Initial reports suggested suicide, but her family alleges years of physical and mental abuse by her husband Shashank Hagawane and in-laws, reportedly over continued dowry demands. Vaishnavi’s father, Anand Kaspate, filed a police complaint alleging that his daughter was subjected to repeated physical assaults and humiliation for dowry. At the time of her marriage, the Kaspate family claims to have given 51 tolas of gold, a Toyota Fortuner SUV, silver utensils, and expensive gifts, including a ₹1.2 lakh wristwatch. However, the harassment allegedly continued, with fresh demands including ₹2 crore for land investment. Kaspate stated that on questioning the bruises on Vaishnavi’s body during a past visit, her in-laws reportedly responded, “We told you earlier, we need money. We’re not going to let your daughter stay here for free.”
Vaishnavi’s Love Marriage Despite Her Family’s Objection Turned Nightmare
Vaishnavi and Shashank’s relationship began as a love marriage, initially opposed by her family. However, her family later supported and celebrated the wedding in a grand ceremony. But soon after, trouble began brewing. During her pregnancy in August 2023, Vaishnavi reportedly informed her husband about the good news. Shockingly, Shashank accused her of infidelity, claiming the child wasn’t his. This triggered another wave of abuse. She was assaulted, thrown out of the house, and had to return to her parental home. On November 27, 2023, unable to bear the stress, she allegedly attempted suicide by ingesting poison. She was hospitalized at AIIMS for four days, during which her in-laws never visited her.
Vaishnavi’s maternal uncle recalled her feeling remorse over marrying Shashank. “She told me, ‘Mama, I made a mistake,’” he said. The family claims that even during pre-marriage negotiations, dowry demands were aggressive — the Hagawane family reportedly demanded a Fortuner instead of an MG Hector car that was initially booked.
Postmortem Report Says a Different Story –
Preliminary postmortem report reveals injury marks on Vaishnavi’s body. Vaishnavi’s family was suspecting murder over suicide since the beginning and now postmortem report also hints at the same. Vaishnavi’s father has levied accusations on her husband Shashank, father-in-law Rajendra Hagawane, mother-in-law Lata Hagawane, and sister-in-law Karishma Hagawane in a murder complaint. Following the incident, Shashank Hagawane has been suspended from NCP. State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rupali Chakankar confirmed taking suo motu cognizance of the case and has instructed Pune police to carry out a detailed investigation. Rupali Chakankar further clarified that Rajendra Hagawane holds no official party post, action will not be spared against anyone found guilty. “We will not protect any accused, irrespective of their political affiliations,” she asserted.
What Action Has Been Taken So Far?
The police have already taken Shashank, his mother Lata, and sister Karishma into custody, and further investigation is underway. Public sentiment remains strong, with many demanding strict action and faster legal proceedings in what is being seen as a grievous case of dowry death and domestic abuse.
