A tragic incident in Maharashtra's Nanded district has taken a disturbing turn, with the family of the accused alleging police provocation led to the murder of a 22-year-old woman. The victim, Pooja Baban Gunjal, was allegedly killed by her own brother, Dnyaneshwar Baban Gunjal, in a case linked to her unconventional decision to marry her deceased boyfriend.
The Fatal Day and the Alleged Provocation
The incident occurred on the evening of March 26, 2024, in the village of Shivani Takli, under the jurisdiction of the Biloli police station. According to the police, Dnyaneshwar Baban Gunjal (24) attacked his sister Pooja with a sharp weapon, resulting in her death. He was subsequently arrested and charged with murder.
However, the narrative shifted when the accused's other brother, Sandeep Gunjal, came forward with a startling claim. Sandeep alleged that local police personnel provoked and instigated Dnyaneshwar to commit the horrific act. He stated that the police told his brother, "If you have the courage, kill her. We will handle the rest." This serious allegation has cast a shadow over the police's role in the events leading to the murder.
The Root of the Conflict: A Posthumous Marriage
The conflict stemmed from Pooja's profound attachment to her boyfriend, Rahul Kawale. Tragically, Rahul died by suicide in January 2024. Distraught but determined, Pooja performed a posthumous marriage ritual with Rahul's photograph in February. Following this, she began living with Rahul's family in Biloli, considering them her in-laws.
This act did not sit well with her biological family. Her brothers, Dnyaneshwar and Sandeep, along with their mother, allegedly pressured her to return home. They were reportedly unhappy with her decision and her staying with Rahul's family. Tensions escalated, leading to frequent arguments and a fraught family environment.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Following the murder, Senior Police Inspector S.K. Kolekar of Biloli police station confirmed the arrest and the motive rooted in family discord over Pooja's life choices. However, the new allegation of police provocation has prompted a response from higher authorities.
Superintendent of Police (Nanded) Shrikrishna Kokate has acknowledged the serious nature of the accusation. He stated that a detailed investigation into the provocation claims is underway. "We are investigating the role of the police. If any policeman is found guilty of instigation, strict action will be taken," Kokate assured. The police are examining all angles, including the interactions between the accused and police personnel prior to the crime.
The case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting issues of honour, autonomy, and now potential misconduct. It raises critical questions about the pressures faced by women making personal choices against family wishes and the conduct of law enforcement in such sensitive domestic disputes. The investigation continues as authorities seek to unravel the full sequence of events and the truth behind the provocative allegations.
