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

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

The NCW has raised serious concerns about the accused, Gnanasekharan, a 37-year-old biryani seller from Kotturpuram. The commission pointed out that the accused was a habitual offender with previous complaints lodged against him. The failure of the Tamil Nadu police to act in these cases encouraged him to commit this heinous crime, raising questions about the law and order situation in Tamil Nadu, the NCW alleged.

NCW President Vijaya Rahatkar directed the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police to ensure free medical care and protection for the victim. The commission also recommended adding Section 71 of the NBS, 2023, which deals with punishment for repeat offenders, to the FIR. She further directed the DGP to take action against police officers who publicly disclosed the identity of the victim, a violation of Supreme Court guidelines.

The attack took place on December 23 when Gnanasekharan, along with another unidentified man, attacked the student and her male friend on the Anna University campus. The survivor filed a police complaint on Tuesday, which led to the arrest of Gnanasekharan, who confessed to the crime. Inquiries are being made to determine whether he has committed similar offenses in the past.

Meanwhile, state BJP president K Annamalai shared a photo on X showing Deputy Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin and other DMK leaders with Gnanasekharan. Annamalai linked the accused to the DMK, claiming that the criminals were often protected by local party functionaries, which allowed them to evade accountability.

The AIADMK also alleged that the accused had links with the ruling party. However, the DMK has denied any link with the accused.