Synopsis
Gnanasekaran, accused of sexually assaulting an Anna University student, has been hospitalized after suffering seizures while in police custody. The incident has ignited protests and calls for justice across Tamil Nadu, highlighting serious law and order concerns.Key Takeaways
- Gnanasekaran was hospitalized after seizures.
- He is accused of assaulting a student from Anna University.
- The incident has led to widespread outrage in Tamil Nadu.
- K. Annamalai protested and criticized law enforcement.
- The National Commission for Women is investigating the case.
Chennai, Jan 22 (NationPress) Gnanasekaran, the individual facing accusations of sexually assaulting an Anna University student, has been hospitalized due to seizures. He was taken to the Government Stanley Medical College Hospital on Wednesday morning while still in police custody.
Gnanasekaran, who works as a roadside biryani vendor, was subjected to a seven-day police custody for questioning by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). He stands accused of assaulting a second-year engineering student from Anna University on the evening of December 23, 2024.
The victim reported at the Kotturpuram All-Women Police Station that Gnanasekaran had physically attacked her male companion, who is also a student at Anna University, prior to assaulting her.
The victim alleged that the accused recorded the assault and attempted to coerce her into meeting him on demand. Following her report, authorities apprehended Gnanasekaran.
This incident has triggered widespread outrage throughout Tamil Nadu.
K. Annamalai, the State BJP President, staged a dramatic protest outside his residence in Coimbatore, striking himself six times to symbolize what he termed the state's declining law and order situation.
He announced plans for a 48-day fast and a pilgrimage to all six sacred sites of Lord Murugan as part of his protest. Annamalai criticized the Tamil Nadu Police for disclosing the victim’s FIR, which compromised her identity, constituting a breach of privacy. He claimed that Gnanasekaran, who reportedly has over 20 previous offenses, was omitted from the police's rowdy list due to ties with leaders of the ruling DMK party.
Annamalai stated he possesses evidence suggesting Gnanasekaran is affiliated with the DMK and accused the party of distracting from the state's law and order challenges by promoting a narrative of division between North and South.
The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), a partner of the DMK, has called for strict action against those implicated in this case. VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan highlighted the necessity of protecting hostel students and urged the Tamil Nadu government to guarantee a fair and unbiased investigation.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also intervened, with member Mamta Kumari visiting Anna University for an in-depth investigation.
