Russian woman case: Goondas Act on accused

The arrested four were identified as D Bharathi (30), U Venketesan (39), E Manikandan (36) and R Neelakandan (36), all of Tiruvannamalai. According to sources, Elena, a Russian national, had come to the town to attend meditation classes. She was staying in a private apartment on Chengam Road. 

As Elena did not come out of her room for two days, the apartment staff broke open the door and found her lying in an unconscious state. She was admitted to a private hospital and the town police were informed. Thereafter, the woman, who was reportedly in coma, was shifted to the government medical college hospital. Though a case was registered, further action was delayed as the girl took quite a few days to regain consciousness.

Following this, an official from the Russian high commission in Chennai visited the woman in the hospital. “The case has been taken over by a fast track court. It is expected to hold hearing on a daily basis as the case has to be completed before August 7, on which day Elena’s visa expires,” said the Collector. 

When asked whether a person without a criminal background could be detained under the Goondas Act, which ensures a year in jail without bail, officials said exceptions could be made in such cases. However, informed sources revealed that the Goondas Act was to prevent the accused from moving the court.