Navi Mumbai ASI Dies by Suicide After Allegedly Facing Harassment, Family Demands Action Against Seniors

Thane | September 6, 2026: An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) with the Navi Mumbai Police Special Branch allegedly died by suicide at a lodge in Airoli, leaving behind a video message and a note in which he accused senior police officers of subjecting him to mental harassment.
The deceased officer has been identified as Pandurang Nimba Patil. According to police officials, Patil checked into a lodge in Airoli on Saturday afternoon. He was later found unresponsive inside his room after lodge staff opened the door with a master key when he failed to respond to repeated knocks.
Patil was rushed to a hospital in Vashi, where doctors declared him brought dead, officials said.
Allegations Against Senior Officers
Police said a video message and suicide note were recovered during the investigation. In the material, Patil reportedly spoke about the emotional and professional distress he had been experiencing and alleged that he had faced prolonged mental harassment from senior colleagues.
The allegations reportedly include the involvement of a former deputy commissioner of police (DCP) and an assistant commissioner of police (ACP).
In his message, Patil appealed to Navi Mumbai Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe to look into the matter and ensure justice for his family. He also expressed regret to his loved ones.
The allegations made in the note have not yet been independently established, and police are examining the evidence before deciding on further action.
Family Refuses to Claim Body, Seeks Strict Action
Following the officer’s death, his family staged a protest inside the Rabale MIDC police station. His wife and daughter reportedly refused to claim his body, demanding strict action against the officials named in the suicide note.
The family has called for the immediate suspension and arrest of those accused by Patil.
The protest has added pressure on the police department to conduct a detailed and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death.
Police Begin Verification of Evidence
The Rabale MIDC police have taken up the investigation. Senior officials said they are examining the contents of Patil’s suicide note and video message along with available digital records.
Investigators are expected to verify the allegations and establish the circumstances that preceded his death. Any further action against the officers named in the note will depend on the findings of the investigation.
The case has raised concerns over the mental and professional pressures faced by police personnel and the importance of addressing complaints of workplace harassment within the force.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.

