Pune: Charges Framed Against Accused in Swargate Rape Case
Pune, 2nd June 2026: Charges have been framed against the accused in the Swargate MSRTC depot rape case, a crime that shocked Pune and sparked widespread outrage after a young woman passenger was allegedly raped within the premises of the Swargate ST bus station on February 25, 2025. The development marks a significant step forward in the trial, which is being heard on a fast-track basis.
Following the incident, Crime Branch officials had swiftly arrested the accused, Dattatray Gade, a resident of Shirur taluka. The police completed their investigation and filed an 892-page chargesheet against him within just 52 days of the crime.
The court has now officially framed charges against Gade, paving the way for the commencement of the full-fledged trial. Representing the prosecution, Special Public Prosecutor Ajay Misar has presented evidence against the accused and sought stringent punishment.
To strengthen its case, the prosecution submitted a list of 87 witnesses along with detailed evidence related to the alleged offence. Officials said the framing of charges and the large number of witnesses are expected to accelerate the proceedings and improve the prospects of timely justice for the survivor.
According to investigators, the chargesheet was prepared after examining 82 witnesses during the probe. Statements of five witnesses have already been recorded before the court. With charges now framed, the case is set to move into the stage of witness examination and recording of evidence.
