Three men accused of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a college student in Coimbatore have been arrested. The suspects, Thavasi, Karthik, and Kaliswaran, were caught by police in the early hours of Tuesday after a brief chase. During the encounter, police fired at their legs before taking them to a hospital.

Police said the young woman, who studies at a private college, was travelling with a male friend in a car near the airport area. The three men reportedly stopped the vehicle, forced the woman away, and took her to another spot where they assaulted her.

To track down the suspects, seven special police teams were formed immediately after the complaint was filed.

The case has become a major political issue in Tamil Nadu, especially as the state heads toward elections in early 2026. The opposition has accused the government of failing to protect women.

Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) criticised the state administration and asked, “Is there a functional police force under Chief Minister MK Stalin?” He also announced protest demonstrations across the state.

The BJP also launched protests. BJP state chief K Annamalai described the incident as "utterly shocking".
He said, "Since the DMK government came to power in Tamil Nadu, such repeated crimes against women clearly show that anti-social elements have no fear whatsoever of the law or the police."
He further added that the Chief Minister should “hang his head in shame”.

Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay also reacted strongly. He asked, “Where is law and order and public safety?”

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chairperson called the case “a failure by the state police” and asked, “How many more Nirbhayas?”

The ruling DMK has rejected accusations that crimes against women have increased. Government representatives say that strict action is consistently being taken, and point to recent fast-tracked trials.

DMK spokesperson Dr Syed Hafeezullah said, "Despite several measures, these unfortunate incidents happen against women, and in every such case, swift and stringent action is being taken."

He said the life imprisonment verdict in the recent Anna University case was an example of quick judicial action.