Women's Rights Body Steps In After 15-Year-Old Assaulted in Tamil Nadu, 5-Day Deadline Set

In a swift response to a "barbaric" assault on a 15-year-old girl, the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Wednesday took suo motu cognisance of a gang-rape incident in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvannamalai district. The Commission has demanded a detailed action-taken report from the state police within five days , citing grave concerns over the safety of young girls.

The incident occurred in the Cheyyar area, where the survivor, a resident of Kancheepuram, was staying at her grandmother’s house. According to reports, the minor was subjected to a horrific sexual assault on Tuesday. Following the attack, she was admitted to the Kancheepuram Government Hospital , where she continues to receive treatment. The Brahmadesam police have since registered a case under the POCSO Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita , with three suspects currently being questioned as investigators scan CCTV footage to identify all involved.

NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has directed the Tamil Nadu DGP to ensure a fair, time-bound investigation and the immediate arrest of all perpetrators. Beyond legal action, the Commission emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive counseling and rehabilitation for the survivor.

The case has triggered a political storm, with the AIADMK and BJP condemning the ruling DMK government for what they described as an administrative failure and a collapse of law and order. As the police race to meet the NCW’s deadline, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for stronger protective mechanisms for minors.