Four MSRTC Officials Suspended After Swargate Bus Rape Incident
A 26-year-old woman was raped inside a parked bus at Pune's Swargate depot, prompting suspensions and security overhauls.
- The February 25 rape of a 26-year-old woman inside a stationary MSRTC bus at the Swargate depot has led to widespread outrage and government action.
- Four MSRTC officials, including a senior depot manager, were suspended for negligence in ensuring passenger safety following an inquiry.
- The accused, 37-year-old Dattatray Gade, a history-sheeter, was arrested after being tracked down using drones and sniffer dogs and is now in judicial custody until March 26.
- Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the replacement of 22 security guards at the depot and warned of strict action for future lapses in safety protocols.
- Criticism of the depot administration has intensified after a viral video showed the facility in complete darkness during a midnight power cut, raising further safety concerns.