The Trichy Central Jail authorities are facing severe criticism after allegations emerged of a disturbing incident involving the brutal humiliation of a sewing teacher by a convict serving time for a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) case. The shocking incident, which took place within the confines of the jail complex, was allegedly covered up by the prison officials.
The Trichy Central Jail houses an Industrial Training Institute (ITI) program aimed at providing education to convicts in Tamil Nadu prisons. Currently, 35 convicts, including Thirumurthy, a 25-year-old individual convicted in a POCSO case from the Coimbatore Central Jail, are enrolled in the tailoring program at Trichy Central Jail.
The distressing incident occurred after the morning class on 1 June 2023. The inmates, including Thirumurthy, proceeded to the dining area for their meal at approximately 11:45 AM. Taking advantage of the situation, Thirumurthy returned to the classroom early, where he found the 45-year-old sewing teacher alone.
According to reports, Thirumurthy forcefully covered the teacher’s mouth with a cloth, preventing her from making any noise. He then subjected her to a forced kiss and inflicted injuries on her lips, chest, and face by biting and clawing. The shocked teacher managed to free herself from Thirumurthy’s grip and grabbed a pair of scissors from the classroom, threatening to defend herself by stabbing him. In response, the prisoner fled the scene and sought refuge in the bathroom.
However, when the teacher attempted to report the incident to the prison authorities, she was met with a disturbing response. The Trichy Central Jail Superintendent, in a threatening tone, allegedly told her, “This is why you have a bad name, ugly. Leave it like that.” Furthermore, a female officer present at the time also warned the teacher not to seek solace or file a complaint.
Consequently, feeling helpless and unsupported, the traumatized teacher decided to leave the premises.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the prison department’s failure to provide adequate protection to both the male prisoners with a history of criminal offenses and the female teacher entrusted with conducting classes. Moreover, the alleged attempts by prison authorities to hide the criminal act and subsequently threaten the victim have further exacerbated the situation, drawing criticism from various quarters.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for improved safety measures within correctional facilities and highlights the importance of ensuring the well-being of both inmates and staff members. Authorities are now under pressure to take swift action to address the matter and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
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