Pune: The Swargate bus stand rape case has triggered a massive public outcry across Maharashtra, raising concerns about women’s safety and security lapses. As protests continue in Pune, Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, has defended the police, shifting the blame onto private security agencies responsible for maintaining law and order at the bus stand.
Kadam visited the Swargate bus stand and conducted an on-ground assessment of the incident. Speaking at a press conference, he stated: "There was no negligence by the police. They patrolled the bus stand regularly. However, the private security agency hired by the ST Corporation failed in its duty to ensure safety."
According to the investigation and CCTV footage, police officials patrolled the bus stand twice—at 1:30 AM and 3:00 AM—on the night of the incident. This evidence, Kadam argued, proves that law enforcement was actively monitoring the premises. Kadam made serious allegations against the private security agency, criticizing its inefficiency in preventing the crime. "The ST Corporation delegated security to a private agency, but its guards failed in their duties. Had they been more alert, this incident could have been avoided."
Additionally, he held the depot manager accountable, arguing that it was their responsibility to oversee security operations. Kadam stated: "The depot management should have ensured proper surveillance. Their failure to supervise security allowed this crime to take place."
Rejecting accusations of police negligence, Minister Kadam pointed out that 10-15 people were present near the crime scene, yet none of them raised an alarm. "Security inside the depot is the responsibility of the ST Corporation and private security guards. The police cannot be blamed for lapses in an area they do not directly control."
The minister urged the public and media to trust the police investigation, emphasizing that law enforcement reacted swiftly and is actively pursuing the accused. "The police have already launched a full-fledged investigation. Accusing them of negligence is incorrect."
