Vaishnavi Hagwane, a 23-year-old woman from Pimpri, died by suicide at her marital home in Bhukum on May 16, 2025. Her family accused her husband, in-laws, and specifically her father-in-law Rajendra Hagwane, an NCP functionary of relentless dowry harassment, physical and mental abuse, and abetment to suicide. The family alleges that repeated demands for gold, a luxury car, and a substantial cash dowry were made, and that Vaishnavi faced ongoing torture for not meeting these demands.
The case quickly escalated, drawing statewide attention due to the involvement of a prominent political family. The police arrested Vaishnavi’s husband, sister-in-law, and mother-in-law, while Rajendra Hagwane and his elder son remain absconding.
In response to mounting public outrage and demands for justice, the NCP, under Ajit Pawar’s leadership, took swift action. Rajendra Hagwane was expelled from the party, with NCP youth wing president Suraj Chavan confirming that the decision was made after discussions with Ajit Pawar and Pune’s police commissioner.
Ajit Pawar has made it clear that his party will not shield anyone found guilty of such heinous acts, regardless of their position or influence. He has directed the police to carry out an impartial and thorough investigation and has promised that strict action will be taken against all accused, setting a precedent for zero tolerance on crimes against women within political ranks.
"Ajit Pawar has always maintained that anyone from his party found guilty of wrongdoing should face the consequences, no matter their status. In the Vaishnavi Hagwane case, he has reiterated his commitment to justice and ordered immediate action, said Suraj Chavan, NCP youth wing president.
The police have registered cases under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for dowry harassment, abetment to suicide, and physical assault. The arrested accused have been remanded to police custody until May 26 as investigations continue. Four police teams have been deployed to trace and apprehend Rajendra Hagwane and his absconding son.
The Maharashtra State Women’s Commission has also taken cognizance of the case, demanding a detailed investigation and regular updates from Pune police.
The expulsion of Rajendra Hagwane from the NCP sends a strong message about the party’s stance on crimes against women, especially dowry-related violence. Ajit Pawar’s intervention is being seen as an attempt to uphold public trust and demonstrate political accountability at a time when the issue of women’s safety is under intense scrutiny.
Social activists and political observers have welcomed the move, emphasizing that such decisive action is necessary to deter future cases and restore faith in the justice system.
