Shocking Crime: Anna University Student Raped by Serial Offender Near Campus Building

Chennai, 26th December 2024: In a deeply disturbing incident, a second-year engineering student from Anna University was sexually assaulted on campus by a 37-year-old man with a history of criminal offenses. The incident, which occurred around 8 p.m. on December 23, took place near the high-security Raj Bhavan and IIT Madras. The accused, identified as Gnanasekaran, was arrested on Wednesday following an intense investigation.

According to the police, the survivor was with her friend in a secluded area behind an old campus building when the accused approached them. Gnanasekaran, who operates a roadside eatery near the university, allegedly filmed the pair during a private moment and used the footage to intimidate them. He forced the survivor’s friend to leave the scene and then assaulted the young woman. Police revealed that the accused also coerced the victim into sharing her phone number and threatened her with further harm if she did not comply with his demands in the future.

This is not Gnanasekaran’s first offense on Anna University grounds. Officials confirmed that he was arrested in 2011 for a similar crime involving a college student. In total, he faces over 15 cases, including theft and robbery, across Chennai.

The survivor demonstrated immense courage by reporting the crime despite the traumatic experience. She initially called the police control room via the emergency helpline (100) on Tuesday, providing a brief description of the assault. However, she requested time to file a formal complaint as she had an examination the next morning. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, police officers promptly reached the university and coordinated with campus authorities.

A team led by Kotturpuram Assistant Commissioner of Police Bharathirajan launched an investigation. By analyzing CCTV footage from the area, they identified Gnanasekaran as the perpetrator. During interrogation, it was revealed that he had a long history of criminal activity, including prior offenses on the same university premises.

Investigators have recovered critical evidence from the crime scene, including biological samples, and are now searching for the accused’s mobile phone. Police suspect the device may contain incriminating photos or videos linked to other crimes.

“This individual has a record of preying on students and has been a threat to the community for years. We are committed to ensuring justice for the survivor and preventing such incidents in the future,” said an officer involved in the case.

Anna University officials have expressed shock and outrage over the incident, pledging to enhance campus security measures. The survivor’s bravery in reporting the assault has been widely commended, with calls for swift justice and better safeguards for student safety on campuses.