Pune, Maharashtra – A shocking incident at Pune’s Swargate bus stand has triggered nationwide outrage after a 26-year-old woman was sexually assaulted inside a stationary state transport bus. The horrific crime, which took place in one of Maharashtra’s busiest transit hubs, has raised serious concerns over public safety and law enforcement.

Police on High Alert: 13 Teams Formed, ₹1 Lakh Reward Announced

The accused, identified as Dattatraya Ramdas Gade, a 36-year-old habitual offender with a history of theft and chain-snatching, is currently on the run. Police have launched a massive manhunt, forming 13 teams to track him down. In a bid to expedite his arrest, authorities have also announced a ₹1 lakh reward for any information leading to his capture.

How the Crime Unfolded

The survivor, who was waiting for a bus to Phaltan (Satara), was misled by the accused. Posing as a helpful stranger, he called her ‘didi’ (sister) and deceived her into believing that her bus was stationed elsewhere. Under this pretense, he led her to a parked ‘Shiv Shahi’ AC bus, where he overpowered and assaulted her before fleeing the scene.

With the help of CCTV footage, Pune police swiftly identified the suspect and launched a large-scale search operation.

Political Storm and Security Shake-Up

The brutal crime has led to intense political backlash, with opposition leaders slamming the Home Department led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for its alleged failure to curb rising crime rates in Pune.

In response, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has ordered the immediate replacement of all 23 security guards at the Swargate bus stand. He has also directed MSRTC Managing Director Vivek Bhimanwar to conduct a thorough investigation, with a detailed report expected within a week.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has condemned the incident as "shameful and infuriating," instructing the Pune Police Commissioner to ensure the accused is arrested without delay. Meanwhile, CM Devendra Fadnavis has vowed that the perpetrator will face the strictest possible punishment.

Public Outrage and Demands for Justice

The incident has sparked protests and outrage across Maharashtra, with citizens and women’s rights groups demanding stronger security measures at bus stations and public spaces.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also stepped in, taking suo motu cognizance and urging authorities to take swift and decisive action.

As the search for the accused continues, questions remain: How did a crime like this occur in such a crowded public space? Who is accountable for the lapse in security?

Authorities are now under immense pressure to ensure justice is served and to take immediate steps to prevent such incidents in the future.

Stay tuned for updates as this case unfolds.