Protests erupted in Chennai after an incident of sexual assault emerged from Anna University, where a second-year engineering student was reportedly assaulted while she was with a male friend on the campus on Monday.
The Greater Chennai police swiftly arrested a 37-year-old man, identified as Gnanasekaran, who sells biryani on the pavement nearby.
The victim, a student at the College of Engineering, Guindy, reported that the assault occurred around 8 pm when they were outside behind one of the campus buildings. She immediately alerted authorities at the Kotturpuram All Women Police Station, leading to the registration of a case.
Police have confirmed that they used scientific evidence during their investigation to apprehend Gnanasekaran, who has since confessed to the crime. Authorities are now examining whether he has a history of other criminal activities. To bolster student safety, police officials have announced plans to enhance security measures on the university campus, which will include a joint security review with university officials.
Anna University Registrar J Prakash conveyed that the Internal Complaints Committee of the university has initiated its inquiry into the incident.
Opposition targets state government over the incident
The assault has ignited significant political uproar, with protests held by student organizations such as the Student Federation of India (SFI) and the All India Democratic Women's Association (AIDWA). Protesters demanded swift action and accountability, alleging that two unidentified men assaulted the student on campus.
Political leaders have responded strongly to the incident. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami called the situation “shameful” and criticized the ruling DMK government for failings in law enforcement, comparing it unfavorably to the infamous Nirbhaya case in Delhi. He urged immediate action to ensure the safety of women across Tamil Nadu.
The DMK government, led by Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhian, has countered these claims, insisting that they are dealing with the matter seriously. Chezhian reiterated, “The DMK government is taking swift action. Very soon the culprits will be brought to justice.” He criticized those attempting to politicize the incident, reminding them of the challenges faced by victims under previous regimes.
