Let Pollachi verdict mark the end of sexual assaults

The Coimbatore Mahila court on Tuesday held all the nine people arrested in Pollachi rape case guilty, and sentenced them to life imprisonment till death. Judge Nandhini Devi has also directed the state government to provide a compensation of Rs 85 lakhs to the victims.
Though the timeline of the crime is between 2016 and 2018, none of the victims came forward to register a police complaint due to multiple reasons. The issue came to light in February 2019 when a 19-year-old victim filed a complaint with police officials.
The police investigation was initially delayed due to a political crisis given by AIADMK party executive Arulanandam, who was also involved in the crime. After multiple political parties and women’s organizations protested, demanding proper investigation, police registered a case with no other option. Subsequently, the case was transferred to the CBI.
Despite the political interference, police arrested nine accused and produced them before the court. Then eight victims came forward to give their statements in a private trial conducted by the court. In addition, the police also recovered the evidence that was destroyed in the cell phones of the accused, and submitted it before the court. The evidence became strong against the accused.
The verdict given by the Mahila court has instilled hope to the victims. The verdict was celebrated by the political parties, women’s groups and the public. Welcoming the verdict, Chief Minister MK Stalin said, “Pollachi incident is a witness to the evil rule. I had said in 2019 that if we come to power, the criminals will definitely be punished. We have fulfilled what we promised.”
The verdict has come as a blow to the accused who were under the influential cover of politicians. It has also come as a stern warning against perpetrators, and has instilled hope in women.
In general, women do not speak of sexual violence due to fear and shame. This fear and shame have been used as a weapon by the perpetrators against the victims. This verdict has proved that victims should come forward to register a complaint and ensure justice is served. This has also created awareness among the women.
The number of crimes against women will decrease only if stringent punishment is ensured for the accused. Also, awareness should be created among the public. For this, parents should first instill that courage in their daughters.
This judgment is a clear indication that the perpetrators of the crime that undermines the safety of women will never escape the clutches of justice. Thanks to the court for giving this historic judgment.
May this judgment be the beginning of an end to the rape incidents and sexual offenders taking place in the country.