Islamabad, May 30, 2025: In a major development, the Mahila Court in Chennai found Gnanasekaran, 37, guilty on all 11 charges in the high-profile Anna University sexual assault case. The verdict was delivered on May 28, less than six months after the trial began.
The court will announce the sentence on June 2. Gnanasekaran, currently in Puzhal jail, was convicted under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, IT Act, and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act.
The case relates to the December 23, 2024 assault inside the university premises. The survivor, a 19-year-old woman, was with a male friend when Gnanasekaran, who lived nearby and ran a food outlet, confronted them. He separated the two, returning to sexually assault the girl. He was initially arrested, then mysteriously released, and later re-arrested, raising public suspicion.
The incident sparked public outrage, putting the ruling DMK under scrutiny. Though Chennai’s top police officer claimed no one else was involved, the Madras High Court found that statement premature. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed but was soon restrained after allegedly targeting journalists. The DGP later asked the media to avoid speculation.
READ MORE: French Star Depardieu Convicted of Sexual Assault
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin praised the speedy verdict, calling it a win for justice and women’s safety. “We ensured swift prosecution,” he posted on X.
However, AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswamy questioned the investigation, pointing out political links and demanding answers about the initial release of the accused. “This is only half justice,” he stated, asking who the mysterious “Sir” mentioned in media reports was.
READ MORE: Bangladesh Suspends Head Coach Hathurusingha Following Player Assault
Pattalai Makkal Katchi leader Anbumani Ramadoss echoed the demand for full accountability. With political tensions high, the public now awaits the sentencing and further developments in the case.
