Did Kerala Professor Anand Viswanathan Get Justice After 11 Long Years?
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Synopsis
In a compelling legal twist, Professor Anand Viswanathan has been acquitted in a 11-year-old case of sexual harassment. Accusations were deemed false, revealing a deeper political conspiracy. This case sheds light on the misuse of power and the judicial system's role in protecting the innocent.
Key Takeaways
- Professor Viswanathan was acquitted after a lengthy legal battle.
- The court deemed the allegations to be false.
- The case was influenced by political motivations.
- The importance of thorough investigations in legal matters.
- Support from family and community can be vital during trials.
Thodupuzha, Sep 2 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking ruling, a court in Thodupuzha, Kerala has found Professor Anand Viswanathan, the former head of the Economics Department at Munnar Government College, innocent in a sexual harassment case that had persisted for over a decade.
The Additional Sessions Court determined that the allegations made against him by students in 2014 were unfounded and part of a broader political scheme.
This case first emerged in August 2014 when five female students accused Viswanathan of sexual misconduct during their MA Economics second-semester exam.
Their accusations claimed that he harassed them in the examination hall, threatened them with false malpractice charges, and warned that he would withhold their internal marks.
Following these claims, the Munnar police initiated four cases, and charge sheets were subsequently submitted to the Devikulam Magistrate Court.
Previously, Viswanathan was acquitted in two of these cases; however, he was convicted in the other two, receiving a three-year prison sentence and a fine of Rs 5,000. He lodged an appeal against this conviction in 2021.
In reviewing the appeal, the Additional Sessions Court noted that the students’ grievances originated from resentment after they were caught cheating during the August 2014 examination.
A university-level investigation had also deemed the allegations baseless. Critiquing the management of the case, the court stated that the harassment claims were fabricated as part of a political vendetta, implicating the college Principal as a collaborator in the scheme.
It further commented that the police had neglected their responsibilities and seemed to operate under political influence.
In an interview with the media, Viswanathan expressed gratitude for his family's support.
“The complaint against me originated in the CPI-M office. The college principal acted wrongly. With the aid of political influence, including local MLA Rajendran, they conspired against me. I feel relieved now as it was a clear case of being framed for performing my duties,” stated Viswanathan.
He has consistently asserted that the case was orchestrated to target him and maintains that a conspiracy was at play.
The acquittal, after 11 years of legal battles, has validated the professor, with the court explicitly stating that he was falsely accused to “settle scores.”
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the importance of upholding justice and transparency in our legal system. In Professor Anand Viswanathan's case, the court's decision to acquit him after a long struggle reveals the potential for misuse of power and the need for rigorous examination of allegations. This ruling not only reinstates his reputation but also serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding accusations and the necessity for due diligence in investigations.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the case against Professor Anand Viswanathan?
Professor Anand Viswanathan was acquitted of all charges after the court ruled that the allegations were false and politically motivated.
How long did the legal proceedings last?
The legal proceedings lasted for 11 years, from 2014 until the recent acquittal in 2023.
What were the original accusations against him?
He was accused of sexual harassment by five female students during their MA Economics examination, which included threats and intimidation.
What did the court say about the handling of the case?
The court criticized the handling of the case, indicating that the charges were fabricated and that the police acted under political influence.
What does this case indicate about political influence in legal matters?
This case highlights the potential for political influence to taint legal processes and underscores the importance of impartial investigations.
