Chennai: In a shocking development, Gnanasekaran, the prime accused in the Anna University student rape case, has been found involved in at least seven burglary cases in Pallikaranai and other areas. Investigations have revealed that he led a life of extravagance, spending his illicit earnings on luxury vehicles, stock market investments, and a lavish lifestyle.
During police interrogation, Gnanasekaran confessed to multiple burglaries committed between 2019 and 2024. Police have recovered 100 sovereigns of gold jewellery from pawn brokers, while efforts are underway to retrieve an additional 150 sovereigns hidden elsewhere. The estimated worth of the stolen jewellery is over Rs. 1.2 crore.
Investigators revealed that Gnanasekaran specifically targeted independent houses and villas in areas such as Neelankarai, Kanathur, and Pallikaranai. He used Google Maps to identify locked houses, conducted reconnaissance in an auto or car, and broke into homes between 5 PM and 9 PM. He later pledged the stolen jewellery and splurged the money on SUVs, expensive goods, and his multiple relationships.
Despite being arrested earlier for burglary, Gnanasekaran misled authorities by claiming he had turned over a new leaf and started a roadside biryani stall as a cover for his criminal activities. However, investigations have now revealed that he continued his crimes, investing nearly Rs 30 lakh in the stock market and online trading.
He reportedly distributed one-third of his stolen wealth among his three wives, another portion for himself, and some to his mother. Police are also probing his political connections, which allegedly allowed him to operate without significant police intervention.
Investigation Expands into the Anna University Rape Case
Police are currently tracing the owner of the car parked near Anna University on December 23, 2024, when the alleged sexual assault took place. The victim had mentioned an unidentified man referred to as “Sir”, with whom Gnanasekaran spoke before assaulting her. Despite repeated demands for the identity of ‘Sir’, authorities have yet to disclose any information.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), set up by the Madras High Court, has submitted a charge sheet before the Metropolitan Magistrate Court in Saidapet. The digital submission includes scientific evidence, CCTV footage, and witness statements. Once the charge sheet is admitted, the case will move to trial in the Sessions Court.
Based on the victim’s complaint, police have registered cases under sections 63(a), 64(1), 75(i)(ii), 75(i)(iii), 127(2), 351(3) of the BNS, and sections 67 and 67(A) of the Information Technology Act. Additionally, Gnanasekaran has been booked under the Goondas Act. The SIT has seized laptops, property documents, and other digital evidence and has also interrogated his three wives.
Critics argue that Gnanasekaran’s political connections with top DMK leaders might have influenced the police’s inaction despite his criminal history. His active participation in DMK election campaigns and party functions has raised concerns over a possible cover-up.
BJP leader K. Annamalai has openly warned that if the mystery behind ‘Sir’ is not revealed, he will expose the truth at an appropriate time. Despite growing pressure, the SIT and Kotturpuram Police have yet to reveal details about ‘Sir’, leading to speculation that a high-profile individual might be shielded.
SIT’s Role and Public Outcry
While the SIT has filed a charge sheet, the delay in revealing the identity of the second suspect has led to widespread public outrage. Many believe that the police are protecting influential figures involved in the case. The DMK party has distanced itself from Gnanasekaran, claiming that he is not an official member, but pictures and videos of him with senior party leaders tell a different story.
