Pune: Shivshahi Bus Rape Case Handed Over to Crime Branch; Victim Questions Accountability
Swargate, 7th March 2025: The investigation into the shocking sexual assault case at the Swargate bus station has been transferred to the Pune Crime Branch. Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar ordered an immediate takeover of the probe, following which crime branch officers interacted with the victim. However, they were left speechless when she asked, “Who is responsible for my defamation?”
Initially handled by the Swargate police, the case has now been assigned to the crime branch for a more in-depth investigation. The incident, which took place inside a Shivshahi bus, involved accused Datta Gade, who allegedly raped a 26-year-old young woman. Pune police, with the help of villagers, arrested Gade within 75 hours of the incident.
Despite the swift arrest, the case took a controversial turn when some individuals cast doubt on the victim’s claims, suggesting she had prior acquaintance with the accused. This led to public scrutiny and mental distress for the survivor. However, further investigation revealed that Gade had lured the woman into his trap, and his criminal past came to light.
Datta Gade is a repeat offender with a history of serious crimes. Two cases are registered against him at the Shikrapur police station, and additional cases have been filed at Shirur, Kotwali, Supa, and Swargate police stations. The accused and his family had made various claims in an attempt to mislead the investigation, leading the authorities to transfer the case to the crime branch.
Investigations also uncovered that Gade impersonated a police officer to rob people. He was found to have blackmailed women involved in extramarital affairs outside lodges in Shirur and even engaged in same-sex relationships for money. These shocking revelations have further strengthened the case against him.
As the crime branch intensifies the probe, the focus now shifts to ensuring justice for the victim while also addressing the security lapses at Swargate bus station that allowed such a heinous crime to occur.
