A complaint has been lodged against a gang of more than ten persons for allegedly sexually harassing a woman and robbing her of her jewellery near the lakeside stretch of the Tiruvannamalai Girivalam route. Police have detained seven suspects and launched an intensive investigation into the incident, which has caused shock among devotees and residents in the area.
According to police sources, the incident occurred during the Vaikasi month Girivalam held on 31 May 2026 along the world-famous Tiruvannamalai Girivalam path.
A young woman from the Arunagiri Puram area of Tiruvannamalai had reportedly gone for the night-time Girivalam. After completing the circumambulation, she was walking along the outer ring road towards her locality when she was allegedly intercepted by a group of youths.
Police said that four youths who arrived on two-wheelers from the opposite direction allegedly waylaid the woman, removed the jewellery she was wearing on her ears and took it away. The woman further alleged that she was subjected to sexual harassment during the incident.
Reports also claimed that the woman was partially disrobed and obscene photographs were taken of her. However, police are continuing their investigation into all aspects of the complaint.
Based on the victim’s complaint, a case was registered at the Tiruvannamalai West Police Station. Over the past two days, police have been conducting an intensive investigation to identify and apprehend those involved.
Police sources stated that seven persons are currently being held at a secure location and are being intensively interrogated in connection with the case.
View this post on Instagram
During preliminary inquiries, investigators reportedly found that the gang may have been repeatedly engaging in waylaying and robbery along these stretches at night, not only during monthly Pournami Girivalam gatherings but on other nights as well.
The prime accused, Vasu, has reportedly been taken by police to a separate location for further interrogation as officers continue efforts to uncover the full extent of the group’s activities and identify all those involved.
View this post on Instagram
Subscribe to our channels on WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and YouTube to get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
