All 9 accused sentenced to life term in 2019 Pollachi sexual assault case that shook Tamil Nadu

Judge R Nandhini Devi pronounced the sentence Tuesday afternoon, following arguments from both the prosecution and the defence.

The convicted individuals were K Thirunavukkarasu, N Sabarirajan alias Rishwanth, M Sathish, T Vasanthakumar, R Manivannan, Haronimus Paul, P Babu alias Bike Babu, K Arulanandham, and M Arunkumar. They were all brought to the court, under heavy security, from Salem Central Prison for the proceedings. Each has been charged under stringent provisions of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 376D (gangrape) and 376(2)(n) (repeated rape of the same woman), both of which carry a minimum sentence of 20 years, potentially extending to life imprisonment.

The prosecution, led by CBI special public prosecutor V Surendra Mohan, has called for the harshest punishment, stating the crimes were “grave and methodically executed.” Eight victims testified, supported by 48 witnesses in total.

The probe had unearthed a disturbing pattern of coercion, sexual violence, and blackmail. The initial police probe was quickly transferred to the CB-CID and later to the CBI following public outrage.