Pune Swargate Bus Terminal Rape Case: Incident, Police Action & Public Safety Concerns
A shocking rape incident at Pune's Swargate Bus Terminal has sparked massive outrage across Maharashtra, raising serious questions about women's safety in public transport hubs.
On February 25, 2025, a 26-year-old woman was allegedly raped inside a stationary MSRTC bus at the bustling Swargate Bus Terminal — just 100 meters away from the Swargate Police Station.
This horrific incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for better security measures in public spaces.
What Happened at Swargate Bus Terminal?
According to police reports, the victim had arrived at Swargate bus depot late at night when the accused, Dattatraya Ramdas Gade, approached her under the pretense of helping her with travel guidance.
He then lured her into an empty state transport bus, promising to assist her — but instead, he allegedly committed the crime before fleeing the scene.
Shockingly, the accused is a repeat offender with multiple cases of theft and robbery registered against him. He had been out on bail since 2019.
Pune Police Action
Following the incident, Pune Police launched an intensive manhunt to arrest the accused.
✅ 13 special teams have been deployed
✅ ₹1 lakh cash reward announced for any information
✅ Posters of the accused circulated across the city
✅ Drone surveillance used to track the suspect
The police are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the culprit is brought to justice.
Government Response
The incident has triggered a massive administrative shake-up.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has ordered:
Departmental inquiry against Swargate Bus Terminal officials
Immediate suspension of negligent staff
Replacement of security personnel at the depot
Increased security surveillance across all state transport bus terminals
Public Anger & Political Reactions
The incident has sparked widespread anger across Pune.
NCP leader Supriya Sule pointed out that the Swargate Bus Depot Chief had earlier warned about security loopholes — but the authorities ignored the warning.
"How many more women will suffer before the government takes security seriously?" she questioned.
Why This Incident is a Wake-Up Call
Public transport hubs like Swargate Bus Terminal are supposed to be safe spaces. This incident highlights the glaring security lapses at major transport stations.
What Pune needs urgently:
24x7 CCTV surveillance
More female security staff
Proper lighting in public spaces
Regular security audits at bus terminals
Visible police patrols
Conclusion: Time for #SafePune
This heart-wrenching incident serves as a wake-up call for the entire system. Authorities must take immediate action to make public transport safer for women.
As citizens, it's our responsibility to raise our voices and demand #SafePune.
