Rameswaram, Nov 19: A Class 12 student was brutally murdered in Tamil Nadu’s Rameswaram on Wednesday morning, triggering widespread shock and anger across the region. The teenager was attacked while on her way to school, and police later arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with the killing.
The victim, identified as Shalini of Serangottai, was a student at the District Government School. According to the police, she had been facing persistent harassment from the accused, Muniyaraj, who had allegedly been stalking her for weeks under the claim of being in love with her.
Shalini had informed her father, Mariyappan, about the repeated harassment. Her father had earlier visited the accused’s home to warn his relatives and urge them to restrain him, but the stalking reportedly continued.
On Wednesday morning, as Shalini walked to school, the accused intercepted her once again—this time armed with a knife. Investigators said he confronted her on the road and allegedly threatened her, demanding she accept his advances. When she refused, he stabbed her multiple times, killing her on the spot.
Her body was recovered and shifted to the District Government Hospital for post-mortem examination. The accused, who fled after the attack, was arrested shortly thereafter. Police have launched a detailed investigation.
The incident has prompted sharp political reactions. PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss condemned the killing, calling the accused a “human beast” and criticising the DMK government for not ensuring adequate safety for women and children. He cited an alleged rise in crimes against minors under the present administration and demanded strict punishment for the accused and ₹25 lakh compensation for Shalini’s family.
Residents of the area have expressed fear and outrage over the brazen nature of the crime. Calls have grown for stronger policing, better protection for school-going girls and swift action to prevent such incidents in the future.
Police have assured that the investigation will be carried out thoroughly and that all angles will be examined.
