Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India]: In a significant development in the Anna University sexual assault case, the Chennai Mahila Court on Wednesday convicted Gananesekaran, finding him guilty on all eleven charges related to the assault of a second-year student on the university campus.
The incident, which occurred in December, sent shockwaves across the state, with student protests and political pressure demanding swift justice. The victim had alleged that an unidentified man sexually assaulted her while she was speaking with a friend on campus. Following a detailed investigation, Chennai Police arrested Gananesekaran, who has now been found guilty on all counts by the court.
Political Reactions and Public Response
Reacting to the verdict, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami welcomed the decision, stating:
“The court has given its verdict today in the sexual abuse case. AIADMK had strongly protested the incident, and the voices of the students were heard. Following a thorough investigation, criminal charges were filed. The decision based on concrete evidence is welcome.”
Earlier, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had assured full support to the victim. Speaking in the Assembly during the session’s opening in January, he emphasized the government’s resolve to ensure justice:
“Sexual assault on a student is a cruel act. The accused was arrested swiftly. We will not tolerate such incidents, and our government stands firmly with the victim.”
He notably refrained from naming the university, saying:
“That university shaped who we are. I do not want to defame it.”
Backdrop: Public and Political Outcry
The case became a political flashpoint, with opposition parties accusing the ruling DMK government of being slow to act. However, government officials have maintained that swift arrest and judicial proceedings followed once the case came to light.
The verdict is seen as a major win for student safety advocacy, with civil society and student groups praising the judiciary for delivering justice within a relatively short timeframe.
Next Steps
Sentencing in the case is expected soon. Legal experts believe the court’s strong stance could serve as a deterrent and reinforce the need for safer campuses and faster judicial redressal in sexual assault cases.