National-Level Wrestler and Her Two Children Die After Jumping into Maharashtra's Dharashiv Gorge

A national-level wrestler and two of her young children died after allegedly jumping into a 100-foot gorge from the historic Naldurg Fort in Maharashtra's Dharashiv district.

The athlete, Ashwini Manohar Paul, and her five-and-a-half-year-old son, Ajinkya, died on the spot. Her two-and-a-half-year-old twin daughter, Kranti, later succumbed to severe injuries during medical treatment. The second twin, Veera, remains in critical condition on ventilator support at the Government Hospital in Dharashiv.

Known in wrestling circles across the state as "Maharashtra's Tigress", Ashwini built a distinguished career on the mat, securing five gold and six silver medals at national championships. News of the incident sent shockwaves through the sporting fraternity and local communities across the region.

Allegations of Dowry Harassment

Following the tragic events at Naldurg Fort, police registered a case of abetment to suicide and dowry harassment against Ashwini's husband and in-laws on Friday. The action followed a formal complaint lodged by her father, Tanaji Shivaji Mohite (54), a schoolteacher based in Whantal village, Umarga taluka.

In his statement to the authorities, Mohite alleged that his daughter was subjected to continuous physical and mental torture over demands for money and other valuables.

Naldurg Police Station officials confirmed that an enquiry is under way under relevant provisions covering cruelty, dowry death, and abetment. Investigating officers are examining the domestic dispute alongside the sequence of events at the fort to establish the precise circumstances leading to the tragedy. Further police enquiries remain ongoing.