Is Caste Hatred Behind the Murder of Kavin Selvaganesh?

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Is Caste Hatred Behind the Murder of Kavin Selvaganesh?

Synopsis

The tragic murder of Kavin Selvaganesh has shed light on the ongoing issue of caste-based violence in Tamil Nadu. As the case is handed to the CB-CID, the victim's family raises serious concerns about justice and accountability, sparking public outrage and calls for action. Will this case bring about meaningful change?

Key Takeaways

  • Caste-based violence remains a pressing issue in Tamil Nadu.
  • The case has been handed over to the Crime Branch-CID.
  • The victim's family demands accountability from the police.
  • Public outrage is growing, calling for justice.
  • The incident sheds light on systemic issues of caste discrimination.

Chennai, July 30 (NationPress) The horrific murder of a 27-year-old IT professional Kavin Selvaganesh, allegedly motivated by caste animosity, has now been handed over to the Crime Branch-CID (CB-CID) for in-depth investigation, as confirmed by police sources on Wednesday.

Kavin, a member of a Scheduled Caste (SC) community, was brutally slain in Tirunelveli on July 27.

Following a complaint lodged by the victim’s mother, Tamil Selvi, a schoolteacher, the Palayamkottai police initiated a murder case and apprehended S. Surjith (23), who belongs to a Most Backward Classes (MBC) community.

Investigators revealed that Surjith believed Kavin was involved with his sister, a Siddha medical practitioner, leading to his violent act.

Tirunelveli City Commissioner of Police Santosh Hadimani has ordered Surjith’s detention under the Goondas Act, citing his potential threat to public order.

An official statement from the Tirunelveli City Police corroborated the preventive detention.

Currently, Kavin’s family has refused to claim his body from the Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital, insisting on the arrest of Surjith’s parents — Sub-Inspectors Saravanan and Krishnakumari — who have also been implicated in the First Information Report (FIR).

Both officers are currently suspended. Discussions between law enforcement and the bereaved family on Tuesday night did not yield a resolution.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Kavin’s body remains unclaimed.

Investigators have commenced questioning Saravanan and Krishnakumari to ascertain whether they had prior knowledge of Surjith’s alleged intentions or were complicit in the crime.

Police sources indicated that Surjith had repeatedly threatened Kavin to terminate his relationship with his sister due to caste differences.

According to the police, Surjith attacked Kavin when he visited the Siddha hospital where his girlfriend worked, bringing his grandfather for treatment on Sunday.

Surjith was arrested that same day, and police plan to take him into custody for further questioning as part of the CB-CID’s investigation.

This murder has ignited outrage, with local activists and political factions demanding justice and stringent measures against the perpetrators.

This incident has once again highlighted the issue of caste-based violence in Tamil Nadu, a state that has witnessed several similar occurrences despite ongoing awareness campaigns and stringent legislation.

Point of View

We recognize the deep-rooted issues of caste-based violence that continue to plague our society. The tragic fate of Kavin Selvaganesh serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic change and increased awareness. Our commitment remains with the victims and their families, advocating for justice and reform.
NationPress
31/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Kavin Selvaganesh?
Kavin Selvaganesh, a 27-year-old IT employee, was murdered in Tirunelveli, allegedly due to caste-based hatred.
Who has been arrested in this case?
S. Surjith, a 23-year-old from a Most Backward Classes community, has been arrested in connection with the murder.
What action has been taken against the police officers involved?
Sub-Inspectors Saravanan and Krishnakumari, the parents of the accused, have been suspended and named in the FIR.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The case has been transferred to the Crime Branch-CID for further investigation, and questioning of involved officers is ongoing.
Why is this case significant?
This case highlights ongoing issues of caste-based violence in Tamil Nadu, prompting public outrage and calls for justice.