CM Vijay reviews measures to tackle crimes against women and children

CHENNAI: In the wake of the rape and murder of a 10-year-old girl in Coimbatore, Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday chaired a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat to discuss measures aimed at preventing crimes against women and children across the State.

The meeting focused on the speedy investigation of cases, preventive measures, awareness initiatives, and the swift punishment of offenders. Senior officials from the Police Department, Social Welfare Department and the office of the Advocate General participated in the discussions.

According to a government statement, the Chief Minister stressed the need to expedite investigation and trial in sexual offence cases and ensure stringent punishment against those involved in crimes targeting women and children. He said that proper investigation and speedy convictions in such cases should serve as a strong deterrent to potential offenders.

Vijay also reviewed preventive measures and awareness programmes aimed at strengthening protection mechanisms for women and children across the State.

Later in the day, the Chief Minister welcomed the verdict of the Thoothukudi Pocso court awarding a double death sentence to the accused convicted in the sexual assault and murder of a Class 12 student from Vilathikulam.

In a social media post, Vijay said the court had sentenced accused Dharma Muneeswaran to double capital punishment in the case involving the schoolgirl, who was assaulted and murdered in March this year. He noted that the court had examined 71 witnesses and completed the trial swiftly, delivering justice within three months of the incident.

Describing the verdict as a welcome step, Vijay said it strengthened the government’s efforts to ensure the safety of women and children and sent a strong message against such crimes. He also appreciated the police, prosecution, and judicial authorities for conducting the investigation and trial expeditiously.