Pune: A 21-year-old IT engineer was seriously injured after being harassed and assaulted by a habitual criminal in the Swargate area.

The event took place late on Sunday night (September 1), around 10:30 PM, when the young woman and her friend were waiting at a bus stop after a shopping trip in the Camp area.

The accused, identified as Krishna Baburao Sawant, a 25-year-old resident of Wanzarkheda in Latur district, has a criminal history, including charges of attempted murder and assault. Despite these serious charges, Sawant was recently released on bail.

According to the police, the accused Sawant has a case of attempted murder registered at Chakan Police Station and another case of assault at Khed Police Station.

The victim is originally from Kolhapur but currently resides in the Kondhwa area. She had gone shopping with her friend in the Camp area. Later, around 10:30 PM on Sunday, the two were waiting near the bus stop in the Swargate area to return home.

On the night of the incident, Sawant allegedly approached the victim and began harassing her. When she resisted, he attacked her from behind, causing serious injuries.

Bystanders at the scene intervened and managed to apprehend Sawant, who was later handed over to the Swargate police. The victim filed a formal complaint with the police.

The Swargate police have arrested Sawant and registered a case against him. This incident has sparked outrage among local residents, who are demanding stricter actions against offenders to ensure the safety of women in public spaces.