A distressing incident unfolded near Coimbatore International Airport where a 20-year-old college student was allegedly kidnapped and sexually assaulted by three men. The victim, who was with a male friend at the time, was forcibly taken to a secluded location after the assailants attacked her companion. Police, acting swiftly, arrested the trio identified as Guna, Karuppasamy, and Karthik alias Kaleeswaran during a high-risk encounter where the accused tried to flee and even attacked an officer with a machete. The police responded by shooting them in the legs to prevent their escape. Both the accused and the injured constable are currently receiving medical treatment at Coimbatore Government Hospital.

The crime, which has sent shockwaves through the Tamil Nadu community, took place late Sunday night near Coimbatore International Airport. After the victim’s friend managed to alert the authorities, police launched a rescue operation that led to the discovery and safe retrieval of the student from a remote area behind a college approximately a kilometer from the airport. The friend was also hospitalised for his injuries.

This case has stirred significant political debate ahead of Tamil Nadu’s 2026 assembly elections, with opposition parties criticizing the state government’s handling of law and order and women’s safety. BJP leaders have underscored concerns over the location of the crime, noting that the area is frequented and not truly remote, emphasizing the need for greater police vigilance and community security.

The swift police response, involving several special teams formed to track down the suspects, ultimately culminated in their arrest after a tense confrontation. The incident highlights the urgent need for strengthened security measures and raises awareness about the safety challenges faced by women, particularly in public and semi-public spaces. This incident serves as a painful reminder of the persistent threat of sexual violence and the importance of a proactive justice system that supports victims and ensures swift action against perpetrators. It also calls for continuous community engagement and law enforcement reforms to create safer environments for all citizens.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from The Hindu.