Pune bus rape case: Police announce Rs 1 lakh reward for information about the missing accused

NEW DELHI: Pune Police on Thursday announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh for information leading to the arrest of a history-sheeter who allegedly raped a 26-year-old woman inside a state transport bus at the Swargate bus station in Pune, officials said.
Thirteen police teams are actively searching for suspect Dattatray Ramdas Gade (37), who has evaded capture since Tuesday morning's incident.
Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar announced that Rs 1 lakh would be awarded for information leading to his location.
The public can report information about Gade at 020-24442769 or 9881670659, with informant confidentiality assured.
Gade's criminal record includes multiple theft, robbery and chain-snatching cases in Pune and neighbouring Ahilyanagar district.
He had been released on bail in 2019 for one offence. The Swargate depot in Pune is amongst MSRTC's largest bus stations.
The victim reported that whilst waiting for her Phaltan-bound bus at approximately 5.45 am on Tuesday, a stranger approached her, addressing her as 'didi'.
He informed her that the Satara bus was stationed at another platform.
The assailant led her to an unoccupied 'Shiv Shahi' AC bus in a remote area of the terminal. Initially reluctant to board the darkened vehicle, she was persuaded by the man's assurances.
Upon entering, he followed her inside and committed the assault before escaping. The victim, a healthcare professional, reported the incident to authorities.
This serious crime in the city centre prompted significant criticism from Opposition parties, who questioned the BJP-led Maharashtra government's handling of women's safety.