Pune Swargate Rape Case: Victim Meets Deputy CM Shinde; Demands Strict Punishment For Accused
Pune, 18th March 2025: The 26-year-old woman who was allegedly raped in a locked Shivshahi bus at Swargate Bus Stand met Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Shiv Sena leader, Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe, in Mumbai. During the meeting, the victim demanded strict punishment for the accused, Dattatray Gade, who has now been transferred to Yerawada Central Jail after the completion of his police custody.
During the meeting, Shinde assured the victim that the government is committed to delivering justice. Gorhe also informed that she had discussed the case with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, pushing for swift action. Both leaders inquired about the victim’s health and pledged the state’s full support towards her safety and justice.
The crime occurred on 25th February when the accused allegedly assaulted the woman inside a stationary Shivshahi bus. The incident triggered public outrage, highlighting the lack of security at Swargate Bus Stand. In response, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik ordered an audit of the bus stand’s security and facilities. The audit revealed several lapses in safety measures.
Meanwhile, the Pune Crime Branch is still awaiting the DNA test report from the forensic laboratory. Additional Police Commissioner Shailesh Balkawade stated that once the DNA report is received, a chargesheet will be filed within a week.
The police have conducted an extensive investigation, including reviewing CCTV footage, medical reports from Sassoon Hospital, and forensic evidence from the bus. Although they aimed to file the chargesheet within 15 days, the delay in receiving the DNA test report has hindered the process.
The police revealed that Gade was seen in Swargate Bus Stand, Ahilyanagar, and Shirur before and after the crime. However, they have yet to locate his mobile phone, which could contain crucial evidence. Authorities suspect that misleading information is being provided regarding the phone’s whereabouts.
