Coimbatore Gang-Rape: Student Abducted, Assaulted Near Saravanampatti
A 22-year-old postgraduate student was abducted and gang-raped in Coimbatore late Tuesday night after being intercepted by armed men while returning home with her boyfriend. The incident has sparked outrage over women’s safety and exposed flaws in the city’s surveillance system, as CCTV cameras failed to capture clear footage of the attackers.
How the Attack Unfolded
According to police, the survivor and her boyfriend were stopped near Saravanampatti by men in a car who threatened them with weapons. The assailants dragged the woman into their vehicle, assaulted her boyfriend, and drove off. She was subjected to hours of sexual violence before being abandoned near Singanallur, from where she contacted her family.
Police Arrest 3, Hunt for More Suspects
Coimbatore police swiftly identified and arrested three men—all with prior criminal records—within 24 hours. Authorities are searching for at least two more accomplices. City Police Commissioner V. Balakrishnan assured a fast-tracked trial, with forensic evidence being collected.
CCTV Failure Sparks Public Anger
Despite multiple cameras in the area, technical issues and poor lighting reportedly prevented clear identification of the accused. Activists have demanded an audit of surveillance systems, calling it a major security lapse.
Protests Erupt Over Women’s Safety
The case has led to demonstrations across Coimbatore, with protesters demanding stricter punishment for sexual offenders and better policing. Social media trends like #JusticeForCoimbatoreSurvivor highlight public fury over delayed justice and weak deterrence.
A Systemic Failure?
This incident underscores persistent threats to women’s safety in urban areas, despite existing laws. Activists stress the need for functional surveillance, faster trials, and stricter enforcement to prevent such crimes.
Updates to follow as the investigation progresses.
