Pune Rape Accused on the Run, ₹1 Lakh Bounty Announced

Pune, Maharashtra:  A history-sheeter out on bail, Dattatraya Ramdas Gade (36), is on the run after allegedly raping a 26-year-old woman inside a stationary state transport bus at Swargate bus station on Tuesday morning. The Pune Crime Branch has deployed 13 teams and a dog squad, announcing a ₹1 lakh bounty for information leading to his arrest.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has condemned the crime, calling it "unforgivable and deserving of the death penalty." He has instructed the Pune Police Commissioner to personally oversee the investigation and ensure swift justice.

The incident occurred at 5:45 AM when the woman, waiting for a bus to Phaltan, was misled by the accused into boarding an empty Shiv Shahi AC bus. Under the pretense of helping her, he lured her inside, raped her, and then fled the scene. CCTV footage from Swargate station and nearby areas is being analyzed to track him down.

The Maharashtra Chief Minister has also taken note of the case, directing authorities to provide justice, psychological support, and assistance to the victim.