Vellore: A 36-year-old pregnant woman was pushed out of a moving train near Katpadi junction in Tamil Nadu after resisting a sexual assault by a 31-year-old man. The incident underscores ongoing concerns over women’s safety in the region.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the accused, identified as Hemanth from Pooncholai village, remains at large despite previous allegations of involvement in two serious crimes, including murder and burglary. The case highlights issues of law enforcement and crime management in India.

Police reported that the woman, originally from Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh, was traveling from Tiruppur to her hometown on the Coimbatore-Tirupati Intercity Express. She was seated in the ladies’ compartment when the assault occurred.

Traveling with about six other women until Jolarpet, the coach was left nearly empty when they disembarked. It was then that the accused entered the compartment, prompting the woman to object to his presence.

The woman sustained head injuries and was promptly rescued after fellow passengers alerted railway authorities.

Edappadi K Palaniswami, Leader of Opposition and AIADMK general secretary, criticized the incident, calling it a matter of shame. He emphasized that women in the state should be able to travel without fear, reflecting broader societal concerns over safety.