Pune: State Minister Yogesh Kadam gives a clean chit to police, blames private security agency
Pune: There has been outrage across the State over the Swargate bus rape case. The Opposition condemned the State Government. But Minister of State Yogesh Kadam gave a clean chit to the police and blamed the private security agency for the security lapse.
Yogesh Kadam’s observation
Minister Kadam visited the Swargate bus stand and inspected its premises. Addressing a press meet, he said, “There is no negligence by the police in this case. They conducted patrol as per their plan. However, the private security agency appointed by the MSRTC failed.
“The police patrolled the area on the day of the incident twice from midnight till 6 am. The Police Inspector visited the bus stand at 1.30 am and 3 am, which is clearly seen in CCTV footage. Thus the police performed their duty.”
Serious allegations against private security agency
Alleging negligence by the private security agency, Kadam said, “The MSRTC has appointed a private security company for the purpose. But their guards did not carry out their responsibility. Had they been alert, the incident could have been averted.
“The depot manager should have checked if the private security agency was performing its duty properly. But he did not do it. Thus, the incident could take place.”
No need to blame the police
Kadam said that there were 10-15 people present near the incident spot but nobody suspected any wrongdoing. The accused committed the offence. The police did not neglect duty. They have a different responsibility. Security of the bus stand and its premises is given to the private contractor.
Have trust in the police machinery
Minister Kadam appealed to citizens and the media to trust the police. He said the police launched an investigation immediately. Therefore, it is wrong to accuse them of negligence.
The opposition is likely to criticise a clean chit given to the police by the Home Department. People in the State are watching the ongoing investigation and action being taken.
