NCW blames police negligence for repeat offender named as accused in Anna University sexual assault case – Tamil Nadu News

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken cognizance of the sexual assault of a 19-year-old student of Anna University in Chennai. In a statement, the commission strongly condemned the attack and pledged its support to the victim’s fight for justice.

The NCW expressed serious concerns about the accused Gnanasekharan, a 37-year-old biryani seller from Kotturpuram. The commission emphasized that the defendant was a habitual offender against whom previous complaints had already been lodged. The failure of the Tamil Nadu Police to take action in these cases encouraged him to commit this heinous crime, which raised questions about the state of law and order in Tamil Nadu, the NCW alleged.

NCW Chairman Vijaya Rahatkar directed the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police to ensure free medical care and protection to the victim. The commission also recommended adding Section 71 of the BNS 2023 to the FIR, which relates to punishment of repeat offenders. It also directed the DGP to take action against police officials who publicly revealed the victim’s identity in violation of the Supreme Court guidelines.

The attack occurred on December 23 when Gnanasekharan along with another unidentified man attacked the female student and her male friend on the Anna University campus. The survivor filed a police report on Tuesday, which led to the arrest of Gnanasekharan, who admitted to the crime. It is being investigated whether he has committed similar crimes in the past.

Meanwhile, on X, BJP state president K Annamalai shared a photo showing Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and other DMK leaders with Gnanasekharan. Annamalai linked the accused to the DMK and alleged that criminals were often shielded by local party workers, allowing them to evade responsibility.

AIADMK also claimed that the accused had links with the ruling party. The DMK, however, denied any connection with the accused.