The Anna University assault case has sparked nationwide outrage, with Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai accusing the ruling DMK of mishandling the issue and shielding key figures.
The Anna University assault on December 23 involved a 19-year-old engineering student and her male friend attacked on campus. According to the victim’s complaint, a 37-year-old suspect, Gnanasekaran, a roadside biryani vendor with a criminal history, assaulted the male companion and then committed the crime. Police stated the accused filmed the incident to blackmail the victims.
Political Outrage Over DMK’s Handling
Annamalai has alleged the DMK is “politicizing” the issue while deflecting from accountability. “Tamil Nadu needs to become a safe space for women and children again,” Annamalai declared during a press conference. He criticized the ruling party for leaking the First Information Report (FIR) and victim-shaming, actions he described as the opposite of what a responsible system should do.
High Court Observations And Compensation Demand
The Madras High Court directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure a thorough probe. It also announced Rs 25 lakh in compensation for the survivor. However, Annamalai demanded the amount be increased to Rs 1 crore, citing the severe breach of the victim’s privacy.
“The leakage of private details is a failure of the system,” Annamalai stated. He also called for the release of a report from the DMK-led government’s committee on police reforms, questioning its delayed findings.
Allegations Against DMK And Police Inaction
Annamalai accused the DMK of attempting to blame the victim and shielding Udhayanidhi Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister and former syndicate member of Anna University. He questioned what steps Stalin had taken to ensure campus safety during his tenure, alleging that the DMK was protecting him to maintain his image for a potential 2026 chief ministerial bid.
The BJP leader also highlighted the criminal background of the accused, Gnanasekaran, noting he had over 20 cases against him, including a similar incident in 2014-15. “Why did the police not monitor him?” Annamalai asked, pointing to systemic negligence.
National Leaders Under Scrutiny
Annamalai extended his criticism to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, questioning his silence on the issue. “Where are the paragons of Indian democracy? Why is he not visiting Tamil Nadu to meet the victim’s family?” he asked.
Public Safety Concerns
The BJP leader underscored the broader implications of the incident, stating that it reflects a deteriorating safety environment for women and children in Tamil Nadu. He criticized DMK leaders for failing to address the root causes of such crimes and accused the government of running a “draconian system” that suppresses dissent.
While the political battle continues, the public demand for justice and systemic reforms remains at the forefront. The Anna University assault case has become a flashpoint for issues of safety, governance, and accountability in Tamil Nadu.