Overview
A 26-year-old woman was attacked inside an empty Shiv Shahi bus parked at Swargate Bus Stand in Pune. The incident happened early in the morning on February 26, 2025, when she arrived at the bus station to travel to Phaltan.
While she was waiting, a man approached her and said her bus was at a different platform. Trusting him, she followed him to the empty parked bus. As soon as she stepped inside, he locked the door and sexually assaulted her.
After the attack, the woman managed to leave but was in shock. She continued her journey but later told a friend about what happened. With support, she returned to Pune and reported the crime at Swargate police station. The police immediately launched an investigation and reviewed CCTV footage to identify the suspect.
Who is the Suspect?
The accused, Dattatraya Ramdas Gade (36), has a long criminal record. He has been involved in robbery, theft, and chain-snatching cases in Pune and Ahilyanagar district. He was out on bail since 2019 for one of his past crimes.
After the victim’s complaint, the police formed multiple teams and started searching for him. They have checked CCTV footage, contacted informants, and raided possible hideouts to catch him.
Security Concerns at Swargate Bus Stand
The Swargate Bus Stand is one of the biggest transport hubs in Pune, handling over 60,000 passengers daily. Despite being a busy location, the lack of security has made it unsafe, especially for women.
Reports say that several old, abandoned buses are parked inside the station, creating secluded areas where crimes can happen. This case has raised serious safety concerns and highlighted the need for:
- More security guards and police presence at the bus stand.
- Better lighting in dark areas to prevent hidden spots.
- Regular patrols to keep an eye on suspicious activities.
- Removal of abandoned buses to stop criminals from using them as hideouts.
Police Investigation & Manhunt for the Accused
The Pune police and crime branch are working day and night to catch Dattatraya Gade. To find him, they have:
- Deployed 13 police teams across the city.
- Checked CCTV cameras around the bus stand and nearby areas.
- Released his photograph and shared it with the public.
- Announced a ₹1 lakh reward for anyone who provides information leading to his arrest.
The police have also urged people to report any sightings of the suspect to the Pune Crime Branch or the nearest police station.
Public and Political Reactions
This shocking incident has caused anger and fear among local residents. People are demanding better safety measures at public transport hubs. Women’s rights activists and social groups have also raised concerns about security in Pune.
Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has spoken to the police commissioner and ordered quick action to find the accused and bring him to justice.
Activists are now pushing for:
- More CCTV cameras in bus stations and public areas.
- Faster response from police in crime cases.
- Stronger laws and punishment for sexual offenders.
Support for the Survivor
The victim is receiving medical care and counseling to help her recover from the trauma. Women’s rights organizations and legal aid groups have also stepped in to offer support and guidance.
Some organizations that help survivors of sexual assault include:
- National Commission for Women (NCW) – ncw.nic.in
- Sakhi One-Stop Centres for Women – Available across major cities.
- Pune Women’s Helpline – Contact your nearest legal aid center.
It is important to spread awareness and ensure that survivors feel safe to report crimes without fear.
Final Thoughts
The Pune bus stand rape case has raised serious safety concerns in the city. It shows why better security, stricter laws, and public awareness are necessary to make public spaces safer.
Authorities must act fast to catch the accused and prevent such crimes from happening again. Meanwhile, the police are continuing their search for Dattatraya Gade, determined to bring him to justice soon.
