A major verdict has been delivered in the Anna University sexual assault case that shocked the city of Chennai and sent ripples across the nation. The special women’s court on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, convicted Gnanasekaran, a local biryani vendor, for sexually assaulting a university student and assaulting her male friend on campus late last year.
The disturbing incident occurred on the night of December 23, 2024, around 8 PM, inside the premises of Anna University, one of Tamil Nadu’s most reputed educational institutions. Gnanasekaran, a resident of Kottur and known for selling biryani near the university, unlawfully entered the campus and targeted a young woman and her friend who were spending time together in a relatively isolated area.
Anna University Sexual assault Case: Biryani Seller Gnanasekaran Found Guilty
According to court proceedings, Gnanasekaran not only sexually assaulted the female student but also physically attacked her male companion. In a chilling turn, he allegedly recorded the entire episode and later attempted to use the footage to blackmail the victims. The shocking nature of the crime and its occurrence within a university campus drew widespread public outrage and demands for swift justice.
Following a meticulous investigation that lasted nearly six months, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted under the directions of the Madras High Court gathered crucial evidence including CCTV footage, call data records, and medical reports. The SIT’s comprehensive charge sheet played a crucial role in the courtroom, leaving little room for doubt regarding the accused’s involvement.
During the final hearing, Gnanasekaran pleaded for leniency, citing his mother’s ill health as a reason for mercy. However, the court, relying on strong testimonies and undeniable forensic evidence, pronounced him guilty on all counts, including sexual assault, assault, and criminal intimidation through blackmail.
The sentencing has been scheduled for June 2, 2025.
Meanwhile, the case took a political turn when photographs of the accused with leaders of the ruling DMK party surfaced online. BJP leader K. Annamalai accused Gnanasekaran of holding a position in the DMK’s student wing, sharing images from party events to support his claim. In response, Law Minister S. Regupathy denied the allegations, stating that the accused had no official role within the party. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin acknowledged in the assembly that while Gnanasekaran may have been a supporter, he was not a formal member of the DMK.
The verdict is being seen as a testament to the strength of the legal system when driven by intent and efficiency. The swift progression of the investigation, the decisive action by the SIT, and the timely judgment from the court offer a rare yet powerful message — that justice, when pursued without political interference, can prevail.
As the nation watches, the larger question remains: will political parties now begin to take moral responsibility for individuals loosely associated with them, or will they continue to deflect accountability?
More Stories
Alwar Husband Murdered by Wife and Instagram Lover as Son Watches in Horror
Meghalaya Honeymoon Murder: Sonam and Raj Planned to Burn Another Woman to Fake Her Death
Raja Raghuvanshi Murder Case Update: Sonam Raghuvanshi Was Involved, Claims Her Brother