The rape of student at Anna University has triggered widespread outrage and debates over safety on the campus. A second-year engineering student at the prestigious Chennai institution was allegedly raped on December 23, bringing to light glaring security lapses and sparking a blame game among political factions. The survivor reported the incident to the police on December 24, and the accused was apprehended the following day.
What Happened on Campus?
The incident occurred in a secluded area of Anna University’s sprawling campus, near an old building close to Raj Bhavan and IIT Madras. The survivor, accompanied by her male friend, was approached by 37-year-old Gnanasekaran, who intimidated the friend into leaving. Gnanasekaran allegedly filmed the two students, used the footage to blackmail them, and later raped the woman. Before fleeing, he took her phone number, threatening further harm if she didn’t comply with his demands.
Accused’s Criminal Background
The rape of student at Anna University case brought Gnanasekaran’s alarming criminal history into the spotlight. Known for running a roadside eatery near the university, he has over 15 prior cases of theft and robbery. In 2011, he was arrested for sexually assaulting another woman on the same campus, although the outcome of that case remains unclear. Law enforcement officials revealed that he confessed to the recent crime, adding that evidence from his mobile phone could unveil a pattern of similar offenses.
Legal and Institutional Response
The police promptly registered a case under multiple sections of the IPC, including charges of rape and sexual harassment. Samples were collected from the crime scene, and further investigations are underway. The university’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC-POSH) is collaborating with investigators to provide support to the survivor.
Anna University, in coordination with the Greater Chennai Police, has announced a comprehensive review of its security arrangements. Authorities have assured the implementation of measures to enhance student safety and prevent such incidents in the future.
Student Protests Intensify
The assault has galvanized student associations, who staged protests outside Anna University demanding stricter campus security. Protesters criticized the administration for neglecting repeated appeals for enhanced safety measures, including better lighting, surveillance, and patrolling.
Political Repercussions
The rape of student at Anna University has also sparked a political storm. Opposition parties, including the AIADMK and BJP, criticized the ruling DMK government for failing to maintain law and order. BJP Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai accused the DMK of having links with the accused, sharing alleged images of Gnanasekaran with DMK leaders. AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami echoed these concerns, calling for accountability and systemic reforms.
Responding to these allegations, Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhian accused the Opposition of politicizing the tragedy. He highlighted similar incidents, such as the 2019 Pollachi case under the AIADMK regime, and reiterated the government’s commitment to improving campus safety.
Campus Safety Measures and Public Outrage
The Anna University administration has pledged immediate action to prevent future incidents. Plans include increasing the number of security personnel, installing additional CCTV cameras, and introducing safety awareness programs for students and staff. Despite these assurances, public outrage persists, reflecting widespread concerns over safety in educational institutions.
As investigations progress, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and well-being of students across campuses in India.