Tamil Nadu: Cop Suspended for Sexually Harassing Student on Train

Chennai: A policeman attached to the R.S. Puram police station in Coimbatore has been suspended for alleged sexual harassment of a law college student aboard the Chennai–Coimbatore Intercity Express, triggering outrage and raising serious concerns over passenger safety.

The accused, identified as Sheikh Abdullah, was travelling on the train after completing security duty in Chennai. According to police sources, the incident occurred when the train was nearing Katpadi, during which the officer allegedly harassed the woman, who was travelling alone.

The student, reportedly in shock, recorded the incident on her mobile phone and later lodged a formal complaint with the railway police. Acting on the complaint, railway police officials intercepted and questioned Sheikh Abdullah at the Arakkonam railway station.

The officials said the video footage provided by the complainant clearly substantiated the allegation. Following verification of the evidence, the police registered a case of sexual harassment against the policeman.

Based on the findings and seriousness of the charge, senior police officials ordered the immediate suspension of Sheikh Abdullah from his posting at the R.S. Puram police station.

The incident has caused widespread shock, particularly as it involves a serving police officer, whose duty is to ensure the safety and security of the public. The authorities have assured that strict disciplinary and legal action will be taken in accordance with law and that the case will be pursued without leniency.

Further investigation into the incident is under way.