Pune: A 40-year-old man has been arrested by Yerawada Police for allegedly molesting a minor girl during a metro journey between Yerawada and Pune Station.

The suspect has been identified as Akhilesh Kumar Akhil. Akhil reportedly forced the girl onto the metro and molested her during the journey, leading to his arrest.

The incident occurred on Monday (September 23) afternoon when the minor girl was walking to a friend’s house to collect a book. 

According to police, an unknown girl led her to the Yerawada Metro Station, where the accused, Akhileshkumar, was waiting. 

A month ago, the accused had similarly forced the victim and her friend onto the metro from Yerawada to Pune Railway Metro Station and molested her during that journey.

On Monday, Akhileshkumar again attempted to forcibly take the minor girl onto the metro, but she resisted. Her cries for help alerted nearby commuters, who quickly apprehended the accused and handed him over to the police.

The Yerawada Police have booked him under relevant sections of the law, and the investigation is ongoing.

Assistant Police Inspector Khedkar is leading the inquiry into this case. The police have urged the public to remain vigilant, especially in public spaces like the metro, where such incidents can occur. 

This case has sparked concern over the safety of women and minors on public transportation, with many calling for stricter security measures on the Pune Metro route network