In a landmark judgement, the Chennai Mahila Court on Monday sentenced Gnanasekaran to life imprisonment for a minimum of 30 years without remission, along with a fine of ₹90,000, for sexually assaulting a student on the Anna University campus in December last year.
The verdict was delivered by Judge M. Rajalakshmi, who had earlier convicted Gnanasekaran on May 28 under 11 charges proven by the prosecution. The case had sparked widespread outrage and prompted swift legal action.
Public Prosecutor Marry Jayanthi confirmed that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) had meticulously handled the case. “All evidence presented was satisfactory to the court. The court has delivered the maximum punishment—life sentence for 30 years without remission,” she said.
The incident involved the sexual assault of a second-year Anna University student on campus, which led to Gnanasekaran’s arrest following a detailed investigation by Chennai Police.
Reacting to the verdict, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin lauded the swift action of the police and legal teams. In a post on X, Stalin said justice had been delivered in just five months, reiterating his stance that no criminal would escape punishment under his administration. He also condemned opposition parties for politicising the case and asserted the government’s commitment to ensuring women’s safety and justice.
Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami also welcomed the verdict but accused the ruling DMK of initially trying to shield the accused, who he alleged was a DMK sympathiser. “It was due to AIADMK’s persistent protests and the public’s outrage that justice was ensured,” he said.
The case and its outcome have become a symbol of fast-track justice in Tamil Nadu, reinforcing the importance of prompt investigation and prosecution in crimes against women.
