A government doctor attached to Phaltan Sub‑District Hospital in Satara district died while receiving treatment in Mumbai on Monday, police said. Dr. Rajendra Rupnavar had attempted suicide on Thursday morning by climbing a high‑tension electricity tower at Sion railway station. Rescue teams and fire‑brigade personnel retrieved him, performed CPR and rushed him to a hospital, but his condition remained critical and he succumbed on Monday afternoon.
In July, Prasad Konde Deshmukh, who claimed to be the personal assistant of a former minister, visited the Phaltan hospital demanding an out‑of‑turn medical fitness certificate for an arms licence. When Dr. Rupnavar refused, citing procedural rules, a heated altercation ensued. Hospital authorities later issued the certificate, after which Deshmukh allegedly threatened Dr. Rupnavar with serious consequences.
Distressed by the threats, Dr. Rupnavar posted a message on social media announcing his intention to end his life. The Phaltan City Police registered a case against Deshmukh for obstructing a public servant in the discharge of official duties. Meanwhile, the Medical Superintendent opened an internal inquiry into Dr. Rupnavar’s conduct; the inquiry report was reportedly delayed and a copy was not provided to the doctor. He travelled to Mumbai the following week, released a video demanding action against the Medical Superintendent, and subsequently attempted suicide.
The state government suspended the Medical Superintendent, and officials said a further investigation was underway.
