Pune: In a disturbing development in the Swargate bus rape case, forensic analysis has revealed that the accused, 37-year-old Dattatray Ramdas Gade, viewed over 22,000 pornographic videos in the past year. This information emerged from a comprehensive 893-page chargesheet filed by Pune Police within 52 days of the incident.
The alleged crime occurred on February 25, 2025, when Gade lured a 26-year-old woman into a stationary Shivshahi bus at Pune’s Swargate depot, posing as a conductor. Inside the air-conditioned bus, which had sealed windows, he reportedly locked the doors and raped her twice. After the assault, the victim managed to leave the depot and later reported the incident to the police.
The chargesheet, submitted to Judicial Magistrate First Class V.A. Makandar, includes statements from 82 witnesses, forensic evidence, CCTV footage, and details of Gade’s digital footprint. Investigators found that Gade’s online activity included a high volume of explicit content and misogynistic searches, indicating a concerning attitude towards women. Additionally, previous complaints suggest a pattern of predatory behavior, with Gade allegedly using similar tactics to lure and assault women.
Following the incident, Gade fled to his native village of Gunat in Shirur. He was apprehended using drone surveillance and assistance from local residents. Currently, he is in judicial custody at Yerawada Central Jail.
The case has sparked widespread public outrage, leading to increased security measures at the Swargate bus terminal. Authorities have emphasized the importance of this case in addressing public safety concerns and ensuring justice for the victim.
