Expressing deep concern and anguish over the alleged gang rape of a 20-year-old college student in Coimbatore, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) member Priyank Kanoongo has strongly criticized the Tamil Nadu government. Kanoongo posed a pointed question, asking, “How many more Nirbhayas will it take for governments to ensure women’s safety?” He further stated that this horrific incident highlights a “complete failure” on the part of the Tamil Nadu government in protecting its young women.
Describing the crime as “heartbreaking,” Kanoongo noted that the assault evokes painful memories of the 2012 Delhi Nirbhaya case, which had galvanized the nation and led to significant legal reforms aimed at strengthening laws against sexual violence.
In an interview with news agency ANI, Kanoongo elaborated, “The Coimbatore incident is heartbreaking. A 20-year-old college student was with her friend. She was gang-raped. This rape reminds us of the circumstances under which the entire country stood with Nirbhaya of Delhi and fought for justice, for the creation of a strong legal infrastructure in India, and for the safety of girls. Yet, the Tamil Nadu government has failed to provide security to a girl student. This is the government’s direct responsibility.”
Kanoongo questioned the responsiveness of authorities, asking how many more such tragedies are needed before decisive action is taken to prioritize women’s safety.
“How many more Nirbhayas will it take for governments to understand that ensuring the protection of daughters, their safety, and their security is a top priority? This is certainly a failure on the part of the government,” he added.
Details of the Coimbatore Incident:
The incident involved the alleged abduction and sexual assault of a 20-year-old college student by three men near the Coimbatore airport in Tamil Nadu on Sunday evening. Police reported that the student was in a car with a friend when the perpetrators broke the car window, assaulted her friend, and then took the survivor to a secluded location where the assault occurred.
A police officer from Coimbatore stated, “The attack in the car happened around 11 pm. The survivor was rescued this morning and is currently under treatment. We have formed seven teams to search for the accused.”
The victim is receiving medical attention at a private hospital, while her friend is undergoing treatment at the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH).