President’s Medal-Winning Police Officer Found Guilty of Grisly Murder of Colleague and Lover
In a chilling case that has gripped Maharashtra for nearly a decade, a sessions court has found Inspector Abhay Kurundkar, a decorated police officer, guilty of murdering his colleague and lover, Assistant Police Inspector Ashwini Bidre, in 2016. The court classified the case under the “rarest of rare” category, citing the brutality of the act, the accused’s manipulation of the system, and his complete lack of remorse.
A Relationship That Turned Deadly
Bidre, 37 at the time of her disappearance, had been in a relationship with Kurundkar. What started as a personal conflict turned into a gruesome crime. Prosecutors detailed how Kurundkar murdered Bidre, chopped up her body, and stuffed the remains into a trunk and a sack, which he later dumped into the Vasai creek. Despite extensive efforts, her body was never recovered.
Helped by Close Aides
Two others were also convicted: Kundan Bhandari, Kurundkar’s driver, and Mahesh Phalnikar, a close associate. Both were found guilty of assisting in the disposal of the body and tampering with evidence. Phalnikar reportedly collapsed in court as the verdict was announced.
A Medal Amidst Murder
Shockingly, Kurundkar was awarded the President’s Medal for Gallantry in 2017, even while being a suspect in the murder case. The judge called this development “surprising” and demanded a thorough investigation into how such an honor was cleared, despite the ongoing probe.
Fabricated Alibis, Digital Evidence Brought Truth to Light
Special Public Prosecutor Pradip Gharat revealed that Kurundkar forged patrol records to fabricate an alibi, claiming to be on duty at the time of the murder. However, GPS data and Google Maps history contradicted his claim, placing him near the location where the body was allegedly dumped.
The court noted a significant delay in filing the FIR, allegedly due to political pressure, and strongly criticized the system’s failure to act swiftly.
Family Left Devastated
Judge K.G. Paldewar acknowledged the immense grief borne by Bidre’s family, especially her young daughter and father, who were not present during the verdict. The court said compensation would be considered before sentencing.
Kurundkar showed no remorse during the proceedings. Bidre’s estranged husband noted that the inspector’s face remained expressionless even as he was declared guilty.
Next: Sentencing and Justice for Ashwini Bidre
As the nation reels from the horrific details and systemic failures exposed by this case, the court is set to deliver sentencing in the coming days. The judgment is expected to include a strong message about the abuse of power and the need for accountability — even within law enforcement.
A woman in uniform, betrayed by one of her own — justice has finally begun its course.
