Chennai, 28 May (H.S.) : A special Mahila Court in Chennai today convicted Gnanasekaran, the accused in the Anna University sexual assault case that occurred in December 2024. The 37-year-old biryani vendor was found guilty on all 11 charges, including rape, kidnapping, sexual harassment, and offenses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Information Technology Act, and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Woman Act.
The incident, which involved the sexual assault of a 19-year-old student on the university campus, had triggered widespread outrage and political turmoil in Tamil Nadu. Following the verdict, Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) leader Anbumani Ramadoss called for a thorough investigation to identify the persons behind Gnanasekaran. While the court proceedings focused on Gnanasekaran's direct involvement, opposition parties have previously alleged connections between the accused and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
During the trial, it was revealed that Gnanasekaran had a history of criminal offenses. The prosecution presented evidence, including the survivor's testimony, CCTV footage, and forensic reports, leading to the conviction. The court acknowledged the severity of the crime, with the judge stating that maximum punishment would be appropriate. However, Gnanasekaran has pleaded for leniency, citing his family responsibilities.
The sentencing is scheduled to be pronounced on June 2, 2025. Various political reductions has come from different political parties. The conviction has elicited various reactions from political parties. While the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) welcomed the verdict, its leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami raised questions about the initial release and subsequent re-arrest of Gnanasekaran, as well as his alleged proximity to certain DMK individuals who were not questioned.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin stated that the police department ensured justice within five months and reiterated the government's commitment to the safety and security of women. The sexual assault occurred on December 23, 2024, when Gnanasekaran, who operated a biryani stall near the university, entered the campus and assaulted the student. He had also assaulted her male friend who was with her. Gnanasekaran had a prior history of involvement in other criminal cases.
The Madras High Court had taken suo motu cognizance of the case and directed the state government to provide ₹25 lakh compensation to the victim and for Anna University to sponsor her education. The verdict marks a significant step in the legal proceedings, but the political ramifications and the demand for further investigation into potential accomplices are likely to continue.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary
