Pune: ‘Will Accept Death Sentence If Proven Guilty’ – Brother of Accused in Swargate Rape Case
Navi Peth, 3rd March 2025: The brother of Dattatray Gade, the accused in the Swargate Shivshahi Bus Rape Case, has called for a thorough investigation into the incident, stating that he would accept even a death sentence for his brother if found guilty after a comprehensive probe.
In a press conference held at Patrakar Bhavan in Pune, Rahul Gade, the accused’s brother, along with defence lawyers Wajed Khan and Sajid Shah, addressed the media regarding the case that has shocked the city.
“We have full faith in the justice system and the police. If the court decides on capital punishment after a thorough investigation, we will accept it,” Rahul Gade said. He emphasized the need for a fair and in-depth inquiry into the matter.
The lawyers representing Dattatray Gade revealed they have been receiving threats following their decision to take up the case. “We’ve had to request police protection and have written to the Pune Police Commissioner about it,” lawyer Wajed Khan stated. He added that they are facing societal pressure questioning whether rape cases should be defended at all.
Rahul Gade provided background on his brother’s occupation, stating, “Before this incident, my brother was working as a vegetable vendor in Gultekdi. He had been in this business for many years, bringing produce from our village to sell.”
The family claims they are now facing social ostracism in their village following the incident. “The villagers’ perception of us has changed drastically. We’re practically being boycotted,” Rahul Gade explained.
The case pertains to the alleged rape of a 26-year-old woman inside a stationary Shivshahi bus at Pune’s Swargate Bus Depot. Dattatray Gade was arrested from his village and is currently in police custody until 12th March.
As the investigation continues, the case has sparked widespread outrage and debates about women’s safety in public spaces.
