Outrage Over Cops Laughing in Briefing on Girl’s Murder, TN CM Orders Strict Actions

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday directed the police to immediately register cases against persons involved in sexual crimes, conduct prompt investigations and ensure strict punishment of the culprits. Reviewing the law and order situation along with senior officials, especially in the wake of the sexual assault and brutal murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore, Vijay directed that those involved in these heinous crimes should be strictly punished and the suspects should be punished with severe punishment.

The meeting also took place amid opposition criticism over the law and order situation under the TVK government. At a press conference on this issue on Sunday, Inspector General RV Ramati Bharati and his colleagues smiled and laughed as they faced harsh criticism from retirees, activists and the public for their insensitivity during the protests. Various political parties, including the main opposition DMK, are reacting strongly to the TVK exemption due to the high number of murders and sexual crimes.

During the review meeting, the CM directed the Chief Public Prosecutor to expedite the trial in cases related to crimes against women and children, take precautionary measures and raise awareness.

In a statement issued by the state government, Vijay told authorities, “Sexual assault cases should be tried quickly and severe punishments should be given to the culprits by conducting the case properly in a manner that deters others.”

The Chief Minister on Sunday spoke over phone to the family of the girl who was allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered in Coimbatore and assured them that justice will be provided.

The sexual assault and brutal murder of the child in Coimbatore’s Sulur sparked shock and anger in Tamil Nadu, with chief minister Vijay on Saturday vowing strict action following opposition backlash.

Two people, including the girl’s acquaintances, were detained in connection with the incident.

The meeting held at the State Secretariat was attended by Chief Secretary M Saikumar, Home Minister K Manivasan, Solicitor General Vijay Narayan, Social Welfare and Women’s Rights Department Secretary Mariam Pallavi Baldev, Director General of Police Sandeep Roy Rathore and other senior officials.