Thu Feb 27 07:29:03 UTC 2025: ## Pune Police Hunt for Man Accused of Raping Woman at Busy Bus Stand

**Pune, Maharashtra –** Pune Police are on a massive manhunt for Dattatraya Ramdas Gade, a 36-year-old man accused of raping a 27-year-old woman inside a bus at the crowded Swargate Bus Stand on Tuesday. The attack occurred just 100 meters from a police station. A reward of Rs 1 lakh (approximately $12,000 USD) has been offered for information leading to his arrest.

Gade, who has a history of six prior offenses including theft and robbery, has been out on bail since 2019. Thirteen special police teams, including eight from the Crime Branch, are actively searching for him, questioning family members and associates. Teams have been deployed to railway stations and bus stands across the region. Police initially faced delays in identifying Gade due to him wearing a face mask.

The incident has sparked outrage and a political firestorm. Junior Home Minister Yogesh Kadam explained that the initial delay in informing the press was a tactical decision to prevent Gade from fleeing. Kadam also stated that police patrols had been conducted in the area prior to the attack.

The victim, a domestic worker, was waiting for a bus to her hometown when Gade approached her, luring her onto a parked bus under false pretenses. CCTV footage corroborates parts of her account. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), facing criticism over security lapses, has replaced guards at the depot and launched its own internal inquiry.

Opposition parties have criticized the ruling BJP-led government for prioritizing “freebies” over women’s safety. However, the state government has pledged to ensure justice for the victim and vowed to bring Gade to justice swiftly. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar called for the harshest possible punishment, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured the public that the police are working diligently to apprehend the accused. The investigation includes examining how the incident occurred on MSRTC property.

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