Pune: 27-year-old woman forced to dress inappropriately at Kothrud IT training centre; complaint filed

 A female counsellor at an IT training centre in Kothrud was coerced into wearing specific clothes and subjected to molestation through lewd comments. The incident occurred between May 8 and May 14, 2024. The complaint was filed by the 27-year-old woman residing in Nigdi under IPC sections 354 (a), 354 (d), and 506. 

Kothrud police have initiated legal action against the centre manager, Mahesh Gangadhar Kaneri, who operates the ‘Gamaka AI Solutions IT training centre in Balaji Complex, Kothrud Village.  According to Kothrud police, Kaneri operates the ‘Gamaka A IT’ training centre in Balaji Complex, Kothrud, where IT-related courses are offered. The victim, a newcomer to the centre, works as an educational counsellor.

Kaneri, the accused man, criticized the woman’s attire, suggesting it was expected for employees to wear revealing outfits despite no official dress code. He made inappropriate comments about her body and suggested she join a gym. Kaneri also propositioned her for a business meeting, promising financial gain by mentioning other girls who complied. This behaviour escalated to molestation as he spoke in a lewd manner.

According to Kothrud Police Station Senior Inspector Sandesh Deshmane, a case was immediately filed after the victim’s allegation. Following Section 41 of the CrPc, the accused has been given a notice to appear for an inquiry and investigation. The situation is still being looked into.