Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu – A shocking case of a young female student being kidnapped and raped in the vicinity of Coimbatore airport on Monday night has created a sense of outrage across the state. The female student was returning from coaching class when she was kidnapped by three men who assaulted her in a location àvay from the public and then left her nearby.
CCTV Footage and Eyewitnesses Help Police Nab Suspects
According to police, the arrested individuals were identified after police studied CCTV images and eyewitness statements. Coimbatore city police apprehended the three suspects, who are local residents between the ages of 25 and 30, within 24 hours. Police Commissioner V. Balakrishnan said the men have been charged with abduction, rape, and criminal intimidation.
Victim in Stable Condition; Special Investigation Team Formed
CPR Medical College Hospital has submitted the victim, and the survivor is in stable condition. A special investigation team will be created to allow for an expedited trial.
Protests Erupt Demanding Safer Public Spaces for Women
Women’s rights groups and students demonstrated outside the district police office, demanding more surveillance near educational surroundings, safer transport, and to expedite justice through fast track courts.
Public Outrage Amplifies Ahead of 2026 Tamil Nadu Elections
The vicious crime has sparked a renewed discussion about the safety of women and the effectiveness of policing in Tamil Nadu as the state prepares for the Assembly elections in 2026. Opposition leaders have accused the ruling regime of failing to preserve law and order, asserting that it has been negligent and has enforced bad policing.
Opposition Slams Government Over Law and Order Failure
Former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami described the incident as “a shameful indictment of a grossly incompetent government.” Meanwhile, DMK ministers rebuked the crime and promised that harsh action would be taken against the perpetrators.
Experts Warn of Political Impact Ahead of 2026 Elections
Some political observers believe the incident has the potential to affect public perception because they expect issues of safety and policing to be key topics in the electoral discussion leading up to the elections.
Chief Minister Stalin Orders High-Level Review Meeting
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has ordered a “high-level review meeting” and stated that “no one directly or indirectly involved in this heinous crime will be spared.”
Public Calls for Justice and Safer Spaces
While the investigation unfolds, residents of Coimbatore continue to call for strong measures and accountability to ensure the safety of women and students in public spaces.
