Tamil Nadu police have arrested two men, including the personal assistant of a DMK MLA, in connection with the sexual assault of a 20-year-old disabled man near the Krishnagiri toll gate.
The accused have been identified as A Adhiyamaan, 39, personal assistant to Bargur DMK MLA D Mathiazhagan, and Asal Ali, a fancy store owner with alleged DMK links. The assault reportedly occurred about 10 days ago and was committed while the accused were sober.
The case became politically sensitive when AIADMK leaders alleged that Krishnagiri Town Inspector Venkatesh Prabhu and DMK West in-charge Aslam Rehman Sheriff attempted to pressurize the victim in a khap panchayat-style meeting to withdraw his complaint. Senior police officials, however, confirmed that an FIR was registered under the Disability Act, and both accused remain in custody until September 22.
The victim stated that he was coerced into writing a letter dictated by the accused and threatened, even receiving Rs 10,000 as part of the intimidation. “I was in mental agony for 7–8 days and even wanted to end my life. They gave me a life threat,” he said.
Reacting to the arrest, MLA D Mathiazhagan expressed shock and dismay. “He was my PA for 15 years. I am deeply pained by his actions. He has been removed from my office, and no preferential treatment will be given,” the MLA said.
