Coimbatore Gang-Rape Case: Three Accused Shot and Arrested After Attack on Police; Political Outrage Erupts Across Tamil Nadu
The brutal gang rape of a college student near Coimbatore airport has sent shockwaves across Tamil Nadu, igniting widespread political outrage and calls for stringent action against the accused.
According to police reports, three men — identified as Thavasi, Karuppasamy, and Kaaleeswaran — were shot and arrested on Monday after allegedly attacking officers during an attempted escape. The special police teams had cornered the suspects near a temple when the trio reportedly assaulted Head Constable Chandrasekhar with sickles, injuring him on his wrist and arm.
In self-defence, officers opened fire, wounding the accused in their legs before detaining them. All three were later admitted to Coimbatore District Government Hospital for treatment, along with the injured officer.
Police sources said the accused are from Sivagangai district and were employed in construction work in Coimbatore. Investigations revealed that Karuppasamy and Kaaleeswaran are relatives and have pending criminal cases against them.
The horrific incident occurred on Sunday night, when the accused allegedly intercepted a car carrying the college student and her friend near the Coimbatore airport. After attacking the male friend, they reportedly abducted the woman, took her to a secluded area, and committed the crime.
Political Outcry Over Women’s Safety
The case has triggered a wave of political condemnation across the state.
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami accused the DMK-led government of failing to ensure women’s safety, stating that “Tamil Nadu was once the safest state for women under AIADMK rule.”
Union Minister L. Murugan described the incident as a grim reminder that crimes against women continue unabated in the state.
BJP state president Nainar Nagendran announced a statewide protest demanding justice, while Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan termed the case “a black mark on the DMK government.”
BJP leader K. Annamalai also criticized the ruling party, claiming that “anti-social elements no longer fear the law or the police” since the DMK came to power.
Police said further investigation is underway, and additional charges may be filed once the forensic and medical reports are received.
