In a shocking incident, a 26-year-old woman was allegedly raped inside a parked Shivshahi bus at Swargate bus station in Pune on Tuesday, February 27. The brutal crime, which occurred around 5 AM, has sparked outrage across the state. Despite the presence of a police post, 18 CCTV cameras, and security personnel just 100 feet away, the accused, identified as Dattatray Ramdas Gade (36), assaulted the victim twice.
The victim later lodged a police complaint, following which she was taken to Sassoon Hospital for medical examination. Her medical report, handed over to the police late last night, confirmed that she was sexually assaulted twice. Meanwhile, the incident has drawn sharp criticism over security lapses at Swargate bus depot. During an inspection by political leaders, several abandoned ST buses were found littered with liquor bottles and condom packets, raising serious concerns about safety at the transport hub.
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The National Commission for Women has taken cognizance of the case. Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written to the Director General of Police in Mumbai and Maharashtra, seeking swift action. Following the assault, Gade fled to his native village but later went into hiding. A habitual offender, he has two prior theft cases registered with the rural police. Eight police teams have been deployed to track him down, and his brother has been detained for questioning.
According to sources, Gade frequently loitered around Swargate station, often wearing formal attire, shoes, and a mask to pose as a police officer. The victim is currently undergoing treatment at Sassoon Hospital while efforts to apprehend the accused continue.