Ambernath, Maharashtra: A woman doctor in Ambernath allegedly attempted suicide after claiming she was subjected to mental harassment following the death of a six-year-old boy under her treatment.
Dr. Swapnali Gaiker reportedly consumed sleeping pills on Friday night in an apparent suicide attempt. She was immediately hospitalized and is currently undergoing treatment. Hospital sources said her condition is stable.
The incident is linked to the death of Vijay Vinod Jaiswal (6), who was receiving treatment for severe cough and cold symptoms. He was initially treated at a private clinic run by Dr. Gaiker and later shifted to a government hospital, where he died during treatment. The child’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination, and the report is awaited.
Speaking to ETV Bharat, Dr. Gaiker alleged that several social activists targeted her after the child’s death. She claimed they gathered outside her clinic with media personnel, circulated videos about her on social media, and demanded the closure of her dispensary. According to the doctor, she was also subjected to online abuse and alleged blackmail.
“Even before the post-mortem report is out, and without any complaint from the child’s father, these individuals are demanding action against me,” Dr. Gaiker said, adding that she has already been called for an official inquiry at the government hospital.
The child’s parents, residents of Ambernath’s Mahalaxmi Nagar area, said they do not wish to make allegations at this stage. They stated that they would seek action only if the post-mortem report establishes medical negligence.
Meanwhile, the activists named by the doctor have demanded strict action, alleging medical negligence. Activist Praveen Gosavi said his group is seeking a detailed investigation and claims to be supporting economically weaker families who may not have access to legal remedies.
Another activist, Sandeep Bharad, denied allegations of harassment and said the matter should be investigated thoroughly. He claimed the doctor was attempting to gain public sympathy by approaching the media.
Police have initiated an inquiry and are awaiting the post-mortem report. The dean of the government hospital has ordered a departmental investigation, while the Women and Child Welfare Committee has also launched a parallel probe.
Authorities said further action will be determined based on the findings of the post-mortem report and the ongoing investigations.