Mumbai, Feb. 26 -- Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday condemned the rape of a 26-year-old woman at Pune's Swargate bus depot, calling the incident shameful, painful, and infuriating.

Addressing the matter, Pawar stated that he had personally directed the Pune Police Commissioner to closely monitor the investigation and ensure the immediate arrest of the accused.

"The incident of rape of our sister at Pune's Swargate bus stand is extremely shameful, painful, and infuriating for every member of a civilised society. The crime committed by the accused is unforgivable, and there can be no punishment except the death penalty. I have personally instructed the Pune Police Commissioner to closely monitor the investigation an...