EPS slams DMK govt

AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) criticized the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government, alleging that the police are shielding the accused in a sexual harassment case at Anna University. Speaking to the media after a meeting at the AIADMK headquarters in Royapettah, EPS demanded justice for the victim and called for a CBI probe into the matter.

EPS detailed the incident that took place on the Anna University campus on the evening of October 23. A student and a female student were conversing when Gnanasekaran, the accused, allegedly attacked the male student and harassed the female student. The accused reportedly filmed the incident on his mobile phone but was interrupted by a phone call. During the call, Gnanasekaran repeatedly referred to the caller as “Sir,” raising questions about the identity of this individual, which the police have yet to disclose.

Palaniswami claimed that Gnanasekaran, who has a criminal record with over 20 pending cases, roams freely on the university campus. He criticized the government and law enforcement for failing to provide a safe environment for students.

“The university has 70 CCTV cameras, of which only 56 are operational. This is shameful,” he remarked.

EPS also pointed out conflicting statements made by the Police Commissioner and State Minister K.N. Nehru. While the Commissioner claimed that an FIR was registered immediately after the university filed a complaint, the Minister stated that the incident came to light only after the police complaint.

EPS accused the ruling DMK of protecting the accused, who is allegedly affiliated with the party. “Reports suggest that Gnanasekaran is associated with the DMK. The government seems to be staging a drama to cover this up,” he alleged.

He further stated that ministers are making excuses to divert attention from the case, leading the public to suspect police collusion in shielding the accused.

EPS expressed concern over the increasing number of sexual harassment cases in Tamil Nadu, citing recent incidents in Chennai, including the molestation of a 10-year-old girl in Anna Nagar. He criticized the government for appealing against a Madras High Court order directing a CBI probe into the case, alleging that the move was intended to protect the accused.

Highlighting the lack of public confidence in the police, EPS demanded a CBI inquiry into the Anna University case. “Victims are hesitant to file complaints as they do not trust the government or the police to act impartially,” he said.

EPS concluded by accusing the DMK government of failing to maintain law and order in the state. He alleged that the administration is complicit in shielding criminals, which has emboldened offenders and left women and the general public vulnerable.

“Law and order in Tamil Nadu have collapsed, and administrative corruption has reached its peak,” he asserted.

EPS urged immediate action to restore public trust and ensure the safety and security of the state’s citizens.