Maharashtra Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam on Thursday blamed the private security guards deployed at Swargate MSRTC bus depot for the recent rape of a 26-year-old woman but assured that the accused, a history-sheeter, would be caught soon.
The horrific crime took place early Tuesday morning when Dattatray Ramdas Gade (37) allegedly raped the woman inside an ST bus. Police have formed 13 teams to track him down, with CCTV footage confirming his identity.
Pune, Maharashtra: Minister Yogesh Kadam on Pune bus rape case says, "...As a government, we are definitely working to curb such incidents. For rapes committed by known persons, there is a need for increased awareness and quick action in society. The police department is… pic.twitter.com/WMiAyVGrhO
— IANS (@ians_india) February 27, 2025
Kadam criticized the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) for lax security at the depot, stating, “The depot manager should have been more alert. The corporation has hired private security guards, pays their salaries, but has failed to ensure tight security.” However, he clarified that he was not absolving the police of their responsibility.
The minister dismissed MSRTC’s previous complaint about anti-social elements at the depot, stating, “You cannot run away from responsibility by submitting a letter.” He emphasized that instead of engaging in a blame game, authorities should focus on arresting the accused.
Kadam also revealed that discussions were held with Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik regarding the deployment of police marshals at sensitive locations to enhance security.
During his visit to the Swargate bus terminal, Kadam was accompanied by Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar and other senior officials. The incident has raised serious concerns about safety at public transport hubs in Maharashtra.
