Pune Police have announced a Rs 1 lakh reward for information leading to the arrest of Dattatraya Ramdas Gade, a 36-year-old man accused of raping a 27-year-old woman inside a parked bus at Swargate Bus Stand. The assault took place early Tuesday, just 100 meters from a police station.

Criminal Past and Manhunt

Gade has a history of criminal activities, including theft, robbery, and chain-snatching in Pune and Ahilyanagar district. He was out on bail since 2019 and has now been evading the police for over 48 hours. To capture him, authorities have formed 13 special teams, with eight from the Crime Branch. Investigators have questioned his family members, including his brother, and close associates.

How the Crime Unfolded

The incident occurred between 5:45 am and 6:00 am on Tuesday. The victim, a domestic worker, was waiting to board a bus to Satara when Gade approached her. Addressing her as 'didi' (sister), he asked about her destination and misled her into boarding a bus that he claimed was heading there. CCTV footage showed both walking toward the bus. The woman hesitated outside the bus, which had no lights on. Gade reassured her that other passengers were asleep inside and convinced her to enter. Once inside, he locked the door and assaulted her. After the attack, he fled the scene. The woman later confided in a friend, who encouraged her to file a police complaint.

Police Investigation and Depot Security Lapses

Authorities quickly registered a case and accessed CCTV footage, launching an immediate investigation. They are also probing the role of the bus depot management and questioning how such a crime occurred within its premises. Following public outrage, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has replaced security guards at the depot and ordered an internal inquiry. A report is expected within a week. The MSRTC, one of the country’s largest public transport operators, runs over 14,000 buses daily, carrying more than 55 lakh passengers.

Political Backlash

The shocking crime has sparked a political controversy, with opposition parties attacking the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti government over women’s safety. Congress leader Harshwardhan Sapkal accused the government of prioritizing freebies for women over their security. NCP leader Supriya Sule also criticized the BJP for failing to protect women in Maharashtra.

Government’s Response

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar condemned the incident, calling it "extremely unfortunate, distressing, and infuriating." He insisted that the accused must face the harshest possible punishment, stating, "The crime committed by the accused is unforgivable, and there can be no punishment other than hanging." Pawar further assured that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had taken the matter seriously and instructed the police to act swiftly. Authorities have deployed teams to railway stations and bus stands to track down Gade. However, his identification has been delayed as he was wearing a face mask at the time of the crime, according to Pune DCP (Zone II) Smartana Patil. The police remain committed to arresting Gade as soon as possible and ensuring justice for the victim.