Why Did an Expelled DMK Functionary and His Wife Seek Anticipatory Bail in a Sexual Harassment Case?
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Synopsis
A shocking case unfolds in Chennai where former DMK youth wing leader R. Deivachayal and his wife D. Kanimozhi seek anticipatory bail amid serious allegations of sexual harassment. The case has captured public attention, especially following Deivachayal's recent expulsion from the party. What are the implications of these accusations?
Key Takeaways
- R. Deivachayal and D. Kanimozhi are implicated in serious allegations of sexual harassment.
- The couple denies the charges, claiming political motives behind the complaint.
- The case highlights issues of power dynamics and legal accountability.
- Public interest is heightened due to the couple's political background.
- Legal proceedings are ongoing, with the bail hearing scheduled soon.
Chennai, May 21 (NationPress) R. Deivachayal (alias R. Deivasayal), aged 37, who previously held a position in the DMK youth wing, along with his spouse D. Kanimozhi, aged 35, has approached the Madras High Court to request anticipatory bail in relation to allegations of sexual harassment against them.
The allegations stem from a complaint made by a 20-year-old college student in Arakkonam.
This bail application is set to be heard by Justice N. Senthilkumar on Wednesday.
In her complaint, the student indicated that she is a married individual currently in the midst of divorce proceedings while pursuing her graduate education at a college in Arakkonam.
She alleged that Deivachayal began stalking her and, despite his knowledge of her legal situation, pressured her into marriage. The complainant asserts that he coerced her into marrying him on January 31 through threats and promises of leveraging his political connections to sway her divorce case.
Furthermore, she claimed to have later learned that he was already married, alleging that his first wife, Kanimozhi, was complicit in his unlawful actions.
The complainant also accused Deivachayal of physical abuse and of exploiting women in precarious situations.
In response to these claims, the Arakkonam All Women Police registered a case against the couple, invoking various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS): Section 296(b) for uttering obscene words in public; Section 75(2) for demanding sexual favors; Section 82(2) for polygamy; and Section 351 for criminal intimidation.
In their petition, the couple refuted all accusations, asserting that the complaint was politically driven, instigated by the rivals of Deivachayal. They also highlighted the delay in the complaint's filing, noting that while the complainant stated the marriage occurred on January 31, the FIR was lodged only on May 10, over three months later.
The petitioners expressed their readiness to adhere to any conditions that the court may impose for granting anticipatory bail.
This case has attracted significant public interest, particularly following Deivachayal's recent expulsion from the DMK.
Opposition leader and AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami has criticized Chief Minister Stalin and demanded the immediate arrest of the accused. The AIADMK is also organizing a major protest march concerning this matter.
Point of View
This case highlights the complex intersection of politics and personal accountability. While the allegations are severe, the defendants maintain their innocence, suggesting political motives behind the complaint. It serves as a reminder of the need for a fair judicial process in cases that gain public scrutiny.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against R. Deivachayal and D. Kanimozhi?
They are accused of sexual harassment, including stalking, coercion into marriage, and physical abuse.
Why did they seek anticipatory bail?
They sought anticipatory bail to avoid arrest while contesting the allegations, which they claim are politically motivated.
What sections of the law are they being charged under?
They are charged under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections related to obscenity, sexual favors, polygamy, and criminal intimidation.
What is the public reaction to this case?
The case has garnered significant public attention, especially following Deivachayal's expulsion from the DMK and the involvement of political figures like Edappadi K. Palaniswami.
What is the next step in this case?
The bail petition is set to be heard by Justice N. Senthilkumar, and the couple is prepared to comply with any court-imposed conditions.
