A 19-year-old engineering student was sexually assaulted on the campus of Anna University in Chennai on December 23, 2024. The attacker, identified as 37-year-old Gnanasekaran, a local man with a criminal record, was arrested after the victim’s male companion immediately alerted the authorities. The shocking incident has sparked widespread outrage and raised serious concerns over the safety measures at the prestigious university.

The attack took place late in the evening on the university campus, which houses thousands of students. According to reports, the victim was walking with a male friend when they were approached by Gnanasekaran. After assaulting the male student, Gnanasekaran allegedly dragged the female student behind a building where the assault took place. The male student, who managed to escape, immediately informed campus authorities, leading to a prompt response by law enforcement.

Gnanasekaran, who runs a small roadside eatery near the university, has a known history of criminal activities. He had been involved in several criminal cases, including theft and robbery, and was also implicated in a similar assault case on the university campus back in 2011. The lack of follow-up in the earlier case has raised questions about the handling of criminal matters and the effectiveness of security on campus.
 

Despite having over 400 CCTV cameras installed across the campus, the university’s security system has come under scrutiny following this incident. Students and faculty have expressed concerns about the adequacy of surveillance and the overall campus safety, particularly at night. Calls for improved security measures, including increased patrolling and better monitoring of camera feeds, have gained momentum.
 

The assault has not only prompted an outpouring of anger from students but also sparked political reactions. Local leaders have criticized the state government for failing to protect women on campuses. BJP leader K. Annamalai demanded immediate action to enhance security at Anna University, claiming that the current measures were insufficient to safeguard students. Opposition parties have also echoed these sentiments, calling for swift justice for the victim and a review of security policies in educational institutions across Tamil Nadu.

In response to the incident, Anna University officials have promised to review their security protocols and implement stronger measures to prevent similar attacks. The university spokesperson assured the public that the institution would cooperate fully with the police investigation and take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of its students in the future.
 

As investigations continue, the victim, who is receiving support from her family and university counselors, is expected to recover physically. However, the psychological trauma of the assault remains a significant concern. The incident has prompted calls from student organizations, including the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), for greater accountability and a comprehensive review of campus safety.
 

This incident has underscored the urgent need for stronger safety measures in educational institutions, where students expect to be in a secure environment. As the community calls for justice, it is hoped that this tragedy will lead to lasting changes to ensure that future generations of students can study and live without fear.