Vaishnavi Hagavane Case : "Strict Action Will Be Taken Against the Accused," Assures Rupali Chakankar

CCTV footage from the hotel confirmed their presence at the location, and police sources revealed that the accused were seen having a mutton party with friends shortly before their arrest — a detail that has sparked public outrage.

Reacting to the development, Rupali Chakankar, Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women, stated that the commission had taken suo motu cognizance of the case. “A police case had already been filed, and three of the five accused were earlier arrested. The remaining two were on the run. The Bavdhan police have acted promptly and successfully apprehended the absconding individuals. Strict legal action will be taken against all those involved,” she said.

Chakankar also expressed concern over the broader social implications of the case, saying, “Despite the government enacting stringent laws to prevent child marriage and violence against women, it is unfortunate that some individuals continue to defy them. The Women’s Commission is actively running awareness programs to educate citizens and curb such crimes.”

The arrest of the final two accused is expected to give new direction to the investigation and bring the case closer to justice. Vaishnavi Hagavane, a resident of Mulshi, Pune, had died by suicide in a case allegedly linked to dowry harassment — a tragedy that has triggered strong reactions and demands for accountability across the state.