Former Assistant Professor Nirmala Devi Appeals Against Trafficking Conviction

Former Assistant Professor Nirmala Devi, convicted in a trafficking case, has lodged an appeal with the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court seeking suspension of her 10-year imprisonment. The trial court’s judgment, which also imposed a fine of ₹2.42 lakh, was based on allegations of attempted trafficking of college girls. The case drew widespread attention after the Mahila Court at Srivilliputtur delivered the verdict. Notably, the trial court acquitted another Assistant Professor of Madurai Kamaraj University, V. Murugan, and a research scholar, S. Karuppasamy, who were co-accused in the case. The charges stemmed from accusations that Nirmala Devi had sought sexual favors from students in exchange for academic favors.

The allegations against Nirmala Devi sent shockwaves across the state, raising concerns about the safety and integrity of educational institutions. The Crime Branch-Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID) probed the case, initiated by the Aruppukottai Town police. The investigation centered on Nirmala Devi’s purported attempts to lure college girls into offering sexual favors to higher officials of Madurai Kamaraj University in exchange for monetary rewards and academic advantages.

In response to Nirmala Devi’s appeal, Justice Abdul Quddhose admitted the petition and issued a notice to the CB-CID. The court has scheduled the next hearing for June, marking a crucial stage in the legal battle. Nirmala Devi’s appeal challenges the conviction, contending that it is erroneous and should be overturned. The outcome of the appeal process will have significant implications not only for Nirmala Devi but also for the broader discourse on academic integrity and the protection of students from exploitation.