Chennai, June 2, 2025: A Chennai Mahila Court on Monday delivered a life sentence to A Gnanasekaran, the sole accused in the high-profile Anna University rape case. The court ordered that Gnanasekaran must serve a minimum of 30 years in prison before becoming eligible for any form of remission. The case, which had drawn widespread public attention and sparked protests demanding swift justice, reached its legal conclusion with the court's stern verdict. Gnanasekaran was found guilty of raping a woman within the premises of Anna University, a reputed institution in Tamil Nadu. Judge R. Shoba, who presided over the case, stated that the gravity of the crime and its impact on the survivor called for a stringent sentence. "This court cannot take such crimes lightly, especially when committed in educational institutions meant to be safe spaces," she remarked during sentencing. Prosecutors had presented substantial evidence and witness testimonies, ensuring a strong case that led to the conviction. The survivor had also bravely stood firm during the trial, which many see as a significant factor in the outcome. Women's rights activists welcomed the judgment, describing it as a victory for justice and a reminder that crimes against women will not go unpunished. Legal experts also noted that the 30-year non-remittable portion of the sentence reflects a growing judicial trend toward harsher punishments in sexual assault cases. The verdict is seen as a significant milestone in Tamil Nadu's fight against gender-based violence, especially within institutions of higher learning.