Was the Accused in the Anna University Sexual Assault Case Found Guilty?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal ruling, the Mahila Court in Chennai has declared Gnanasekaran guilty of multiple charges, including rape, in the Anna University sexual assault case. The verdict marks a significant milestone in the fight for justice against gender-based violence in educational institutions.
Key Takeaways
- Gnanasekaran guilty of rape and other charges.
- Sentencing set for June 2.
- Incident occurred on December 23, 2024.
- Victim showed remarkable courage in reporting.
- This case portrays a significant step towards justice for women.
Chennai, May 28 (NationPress) Almost five months following the sexual assault of a student on the grounds of Anna University, the Mahila Court in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has ruled the sole accused, Gnanasekaran (37), guilty on 11 charges, including rape.
Judge M. Rajalakshmi announced that the sentencing will take place on June 2.
The charge sheet was submitted on February 24 by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) that took over the investigation from the Greater Chennai Police.
Gnanasekaran, who worked as a roadside biryani vendor and is associated with the DMK, has a documented history of criminal activities and was arrested shortly after the incident.
The prosecution detailed that the incident occurred on December 23, 2024, when the victim, a second-year engineering student, was with a male friend on campus.
Gnanasekaran confronted the pair, threatening them with a fabricated video of their intimate moments, insisting he would share it with university officials to have them expelled.
He coerced the boy into leaving and manipulated the girl to accompany him to a secluded area of the campus, pretending that the boy was under investigation by university staff.
When she resisted his demands, Gnanasekaran allegedly sexually assaulted her and recorded the incident on his mobile phone.
He later acquired her phone number and blackmailed her, threatening to send the video to her father and college authorities if she did not meet him again. Nevertheless, the girl exhibited remarkable bravery by not succumbing to silence.
With her family's and college authorities' support, she lodged a complaint the following day at the Kotturpuram All Women Police Station. The police's prompt action resulted in Gnanasekaran's immediate arrest.
During the trial, his attorney sought leniency in sentencing based on personal circumstances. However, the prosecution strongly opposed this, highlighting the egregious nature of the crime and the accused's extensive criminal history.
Judge Rajalakshmi, after considering both arguments, has postponed the announcement of the sentence until June 2.
This verdict is seen as a significant advancement towards justice for the survivor, sending a strong message against crimes targeting women on educational campuses.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that this verdict is a pivotal moment for justice and women's rights in India. It underscores the importance of swift legal action against crimes targeting women, especially in educational spaces. We stand in solidarity with survivors and advocate for a safer environment for all students.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the charges against Gnanasekaran?
Gnanasekaran was found guilty of 11 charges, including rape.
When will the sentencing take place?
The sentencing is scheduled for June 2.
What actions did the victim take after the incident?
The victim filed a complaint the next day at the Kotturpuram All Women Police Station with support from her family and college authorities.
What role did the Special Investigation Team play?
The SIT took over the investigation from the Greater Chennai Police and filed the charge sheet.
What message does this verdict send?
It sends a strong message against gender-based violence and highlights the importance of justice for survivors.
