Sat Jan 24 16:28:44 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Transpersons Assaulted and Threatened in Chennai; Two Arrested

The Story: On January 24, 2026, police in Chennai arrested two men, Rahul, 22, and his brother Samuel, 20, for allegedly assaulting transpersons and threatening them with a knife. The incident stemmed from repeated harassment by Rahul towards Kalpana, the sister of Kaviya, 26, a transwoman residing in Pulianthope.

According to Kaviya’s complaint, Rahul created a disturbance at Kalpana’s house. When Kaviya and Rathiyammal intervened, Rahul and Samuel allegedly abused and assaulted them, with Rahul brandishing a knife. The Otteri police registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act (TNPHW Act).

Key Points:

  • Two men, Rahul and Samuel, were arrested for assaulting and threatening transpersons in Otteri, Chennai.
  • The incident originated from the alleged harassment of Kalpana by Rahul.
  • Rahul allegedly brandished a knife during the assault.
  • The police registered a case under the BNS and TNPHW Act.
  • Rahul has a history of involvement in two attempt-to-murder cases. Samuel is a history-sheeter with five criminal cases, including a murder case.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of transpersons to harassment and violence, even with laws like the TNPHW Act in place.
  • The criminal history of the accused suggests a pattern of violent behavior.
  • The police acted swiftly in arresting the accused and seizing the weapon.
  • The application of both the BNS and the TNPHW Act underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the crime.

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