The Chennai Mahila Court on Wednesday convicted Gananesekaran in the Anna University sexual assault case, holding him guilty on all eleven charges filed against him. The case pertains to the December 2023 sexual assault of a second-year student on the university campus.
Following the incident, the Chennai Police arrested Gananesekaran after a swift investigation. The victim had filed a complaint on December 23, alleging that an unidentified man had threatened and assaulted her while she was conversing with a friend on campus.
Welcoming the verdict, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami stated, “The court has delivered justice. Our party stood with the protesting students and demanded action, and today’s verdict is a result of sustained pressure and proper investigation.”
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, while addressing the state assembly earlier, reiterated his government’s support for the victim and emphasized that the accused was arrested promptly to ensure justice. “Sexual assault on a student is inexcusable. The government is committed to standing with the victim and ensuring justice is delivered,” he said.
Despite the government’s assurance, the case sparked political controversy, with opposition parties accusing the DMK government of initially moving slowly on the matter. However, Wednesday’s verdict has been widely welcomed as a significant step toward accountability and justice in campus safety.
The incident, which shocked the academic community, also led to widespread student protests and calls for stronger security measures at educational institutions.
