Wed Jan 08 17:00:07 UTC 2025: ## DMK Supporter Arrested in Anna University Sexual Assault Case, CM Stalin Assures Swift Justice

**Chennai, India** – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin confirmed on Wednesday that the man accused of sexually assaulting a 19-year-old engineering student on the Anna University campus is a supporter of his Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party, but denied he is a formal member. The accused, identified as Gnanasekaran, a roadside biryani vendor, was arrested within hours of the December 23rd incident and the Goondas Act has been invoked against him.

Stalin emphasized that the safety of women is a top priority for his government and insisted that no one would be shielded, regardless of their political affiliation. He highlighted the swift filing of an FIR and ongoing investigation, promising the arrest of anyone else involved. He further cited various government schemes aimed at women’s empowerment, including free bus rides and financial assistance.

The incident sparked outrage during the ongoing state Assembly session, with the opposition AIADMK criticizing the government’s handling of the case and highlighting the alleged delay in filing an FIR in a similar 2019 Pollachi sexual assault case during their tenure. AIADMK members staged a walkout from the Assembly, demanding the government focus on the present situation. Other opposition parties, including the PMK and BJP, also walked out in protest.

Protests were also held outside the Anna University campus by AIADMK student wing members, who demanded the arrest of another individual allegedly involved. These protests resulted in several students being briefly detained.

Last week, the Madras High Court criticized the politicization of the Anna University sexual assault case and expressed concern over the lack of genuine concern for women’s safety. The Chief Minister assured that the chargesheet will be filed within 60 days and the case fast-tracked to ensure maximum punishment for the accused.

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