Justice Served: Martial Arts Instructor Sentenced to 10 Years for Disturbing Sexual Assault Charges
A Mahila Court in Chennai has sentenced martial arts instructor E. Kebi Raj, 41, to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment after he was found guilty of raping a former student. The verdict comes after a lengthy legal battle stemming from events that occurred in 2014, when the victim, a now 26-year-old woman, alleged that Kebi Raj assaulted her after a judo tournament in Namakkal.
The case unfolded when the victim, who had enrolled in Kebi Raj’s martial arts program at a reputable school in Anna Nagar, reported the incident to the police. During their return to Chennai, she claimed that he not only inappropriately touched her but also attempted to rape her while they were in a moving vehicle. The victim further stated that Kebi Raj threatened to kill her if she ever revealed the truth.
The trauma from the assault led her to quit the martial arts institute. However, a recent incident involving the arrest of a school teacher for sexual harassment empowered her to come forward. In a courageous move, she reported the crime to the Deputy Commissioner of Police for Crimes Against Women and Children, which led to her formal complaint being registered with the All Women Police Station in Anna Nagar.
Following her disclosures, police launched an investigation based on her allegations, resulting in the filing of charges against Kebi Raj under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. These included Section 376 (punishment for rape) and Section 511 (criminal attempt to commit rape), along with additional charges regarding assault intended to outrage modesty and other forms of harassment.
During the trial held at the Mahila Court within the Madras High Court complex, Kebi Raj pleaded not guilty, yet the evidence presented proved overwhelming. Judge Padma, presiding over the case, ultimately rendered a guilty verdict, sentencing him to a decade in prison along with a fine of ₹50,000.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault in coming forward, as well as the importance of legal mechanisms in supporting and protecting victims. The victim’s brave decision to report the crime sheds light on the necessity for greater awareness and stronger enforcement against sexual violence, particularly within the scope of educational institutions and sports training environments.
This ruling serves as a pivotal moment not only for the victim but for the broader fight against gender-based violence in Chennai and across India. The judiciary’s decisive action underscores a commitment to justice in similar cases, promoting a safer environment for women.
Published – August 14, 2025, 04:00 am IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/martial-art-instructor-sentenced-to-10-years-jail-for-sexual-assault/article69928927.ece
Category : Chennai
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Publish Date: 2025-08-14 04:00:00
