Chennai Mahila Court Sentences Anna University Sexual Assault Convict Gnanasekaran to Life Imprisonment Without Remission
Chennai — In a powerful verdict that echoes the demand for justice in one of Tamil Nadu’s most horrific sexual assault cases, the Chennai Mahila Court on Monday sentenced A. Gnanasekaran, a temporary staffer at Anna University, to life imprisonment without the possibility of remission for at least 30 years. The court also imposed a fine of ₹90,000.
The sentence marks a crucial step in delivering justice for the survivor and sends a strong message against gender-based violence, especially in educational institutions meant to empower women.
Background: Assault That Shocked Tamil Nadu
The case traces back to December 23, 2024, when a woman student at Anna University lodged a complaint at the All Women Police Station in Kotturpuram, Chennai. She alleged that Gnanasekaran, who worked as a biriyani vendor and was temporarily posted at the Centre for Women Empowerment, approached her and a male friend at night, threatened them, and later sexually assaulted her.
The shocking nature of the incident and the location within a university campus led to widespread protests by student bodies and women’s rights organisations. Public outrage mounted rapidly, pushing authorities to act swiftly.
Arrest, Investigation & Trial
Following the FIR and arrest in December 2024, the case faced criticism over procedural lapses and concerns of institutional cover-up. In response, the Madras High Court transferred the case to a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
The SIT not only pursued the investigation rigorously but also probed the controversial leak of the original FIR, which had led to intense scrutiny from activists and legal experts.
A comprehensive charge sheet was filed in February 2025, and the trial was officially moved to the Chennai Mahila Court on March 7.
Guilty on All 11 Charges Under BNS, BNSS, and IT Act
The court found Gnanasekaran guilty of all 11 charges, which include:
- Section 64(1) – Rape (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita)
- Section 87 – Abduction of a Woman
- Section 126(2) – Wrongful Restraint
- Section 329 – Criminal Trespass
- Section 66 – Information Technology Act
- Section 4 – Tamil Nadu Prevention of Women Harassment Act
The prosecution, led by government counsel, presented irrefutable evidence, including CCTV footage, call records, and forensic reports, firmly establishing the crime.
Judge's Statement and Sentencing
Presiding Judge Rajalakshmi reserved the sentencing on May 28 after pronouncing Gnanasekaran guilty. On June 2, the final judgment was delivered with clarity and resolve.
“The crime committed is not only an assault on a young woman but an abuse of a space meant for women’s safety and empowerment,” Judge Rajalakshmi noted during sentencing.
Given the gravity of the offence, the prosecution demanded the “maximum punishment permissible under law”. The court agreed, ruling that life imprisonment with no remission for 30 years was justified.
Public Reaction and Impact
Women’s rights activists, civil society groups, and student organisations have welcomed the verdict, viewing it as a milestone in ensuring that educational institutions remain safe spaces.
“This judgment will act as a deterrent to predators who misuse institutional power and public spaces,” said Meera Krishnan, a Chennai-based women's rights advocate.
The swift handling by the SIT and the decisive trial in the Mahila Court are also being hailed as models of prompt and sensitive judicial response.
A Larger Message for India’s Institutions
This verdict is more than just a punishment — it serves as a symbolic and legal stand against gender-based crimes in institutional settings. It reinforces the message that no individual is above the law, and safety of women in educational environments is non-negotiable.