A disturbing case of sexual harassment has surfaced at Anna University in Chennai, involving a 19-year-old student who alleges that the accused, a 37-year-old man, forced her to perform sexual acts and threatened her with regular meetings. The incident has sparked widespread attention, with the National Commission for Women (NCW) taking suo moto cognisance of the case, and political parties in Tamil Nadu engaging in a heated debate over law and order in the state.
According to the victim’s statement, the incident occurred on the evening of December 23, around 8 p.m. The victim, a second-year student, was conversing with her male friend, a third-year student, behind a building on the university campus when the accused allegedly approached them. He first assaulted the male student and then sexually molested the female student. The accused reportedly threatened both victims, demanding that the female student meet him regularly.
The woman student immediately reported the matter to the police, filing a formal complaint at the Kotturpuram All Women’s Police Station on December 24. Authorities responded swiftly, with police arresting the accused on December 25. Greater Chennai Corporation Commissioner A. Arun confirmed that the police were notified through the emergency helpline (100), and a team was dispatched to the university to apprehend the suspect.
In response to the case, the NCW issued a statement condemning the assault and called for a thorough investigation. The commission has also promised to monitor the progress of the case. Meanwhile, the ruling DMK government in Tamil Nadu has come under fire from opposition parties, including the AIADMK and BJP, who have criticized the state’s handling of law and order issues.
The university administration has expressed its concern and assured that it will cooperate with authorities throughout the investigation. The university has also stated that measures will be taken to enhance security on campus to prevent future incidents.
The accused, whose identity has not been publicly revealed, was arrested on charges related to sexual assault and harassment. The case is currently under investigation by local authorities. Both the male and female students’ identities are being kept confidential to protect their privacy.
As the investigation continues, the incident has raised serious questions about safety on university campuses, highlighting the need for stronger protective measures for students and more stringent action against perpetrators of sexual violence.
Further updates are expected as the case progresses.
