Special Correspondent | Pune
Tensions escalated in the ongoing Vaishnavi Hagawane suicide case as the legal counsel representing the Hagawane family alleged that Vaishnavi was engaged in “inappropriate chats” with another individual, hinting that these interactions may have contributed to her taking the extreme step. The claim, presented during a court hearing, has drawn sharp criticism from Vaishnavi’s family, who called it a blatant attempt at character assassination and a diversion from the real culprits.
Vaishnavi’s relatives, visibly emotional outside the courtroom, firmly denied the allegations. “We have complete faith in our daughter. She was a victim, not someone who needed to be blamed. This is a deliberate ploy to divert the investigation, and we strongly condemn it,” said her uncle, Mohan Kaspate, while speaking to reporters. Her maternal uncle, Uttam Bahirat, also slammed the opposing counsel’s narrative and reiterated the family’s demand for justice.
The police custody of Vaishnavi’s husband Shashank Hagawane, her mother-in-law Lata Hagawane, and sister-in-law Karishma Hagawane was extended by a day. Meanwhile, the father-in-law and brother-in-law have been remanded to police custody until May 31. All five are under investigation for alleged mental and physical harassment that Vaishnavi faced post-marriage, which the family claims ultimately led to her tragic death.
During court proceedings, Vaishnavi’s family highlighted that the accused had demanded dowry in the form of gold ornaments and a car. “They humiliated our daughter for not bringing a big enough dowry. Their lawyer arrogantly claimed that they didn’t need a ₹40 lakh Fortuner because they own vehicles worth ₹5 crore. But this is false bravado. That very car was towed away, and it was our family who helped recover it,” said Bahirat.
Kaspate added, “We have faith in the judiciary and the police investigation. These false allegations against Vaishnavi are deeply hurtful. Even if they try to defame her, we will not stop until justice is served. The truth will prevail.”
The case has sparked widespread public interest, with women’s rights groups calling for a fair and transparent probe. The next hearing is scheduled later this week, as the police continue to examine digital evidence and statements from both sides.
