Chennai Court Sentences Biryani Seller to Life Imprisonment for Rape of Student
In a significant ruling, a special women's court in Chennai has sentenced biryani vendor Gnyanasekaran to life imprisonment for the rape of a 19-year-old student at Anna University. The court's decision, which includes a hefty fine, follows a thorough examination of documentary and forensic evidence that confirmed the charges. The case has stirred political controversy due to alleged connections with the ruling party, and public outrage intensified after details emerged through media channels. This ruling underscores the ongoing challenges in addressing sexual violence and ensuring justice for victims in India.
| Jun 2, 2025, 16:26 IST
Life Sentence for Biryani Vendor in Rape Case
A special women's court in Chennai has sentenced biryani vendor Gnyanasekaran to life imprisonment for a minimum of 30 years without parole, following his conviction for the rape of a 19-year-old student in December 2024 at the Anna University campus. The court also imposed a fine of ₹90,000 on him. The judge noted that the evidence presented, both documentary and forensic, substantiated the charges against him. Judge M. Rajalakshmi, who found Gnyanasekaran guilty on May 28, issued the sentence under 11 different charges that will run concurrently. The court stated that the prosecution had proven the case beyond reasonable doubt.
Details of the Case and Sentencing
During the sentencing, Gnyanasekaran requested a lighter sentence, claiming to be the sole breadwinner for his family. However, the prosecution opposed this plea and urged the court to impose the maximum penalty, which the judge granted. The case sparked political controversy following reports of Gnyanasekaran's alleged connections with the ruling DMK party in Tamil Nadu. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin clarified in January that the convicted individual was not a party member but merely a supporter. The incident came to light when the victim filed a complaint at the All Women Police Station in Kotturpuram on December 23, 2024, alleging that Gnyanasekaran had threatened and sexually assaulted her while she was on campus with a male friend.
Public Outrage and Investigation
The case gained further attention after the FIR was accessed through the Tamil Nadu police's CCNTS website and circulated in some media outlets, leading to public outrage. Subsequently, the Madras High Court assigned the investigation to a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which also looked into the leaks. The SIT filed its charge sheet in February, and the case was later brought before the women's court, which framed charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Indian Civil Security Code (BNS), Information Technology Act, and the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Women Harassment Act.