The Madras High Court has taken note of a sexual assault incident involving an Anna University student on campus.

Madras High Court on Friday took suo motu cognisance of an alleged sexual assault incident involving a 19-year-old student on the Anna University campus in Chennai. The incident, which reportedly occurred earlier this week, has raised serious concerns about student safety and law enforcement in the state.

A vacation bench comprising Justices S.M. Subramaniam and V. Lakshminarayan directed the Tamil Nadu government to provide a comprehensive report on the incident and the progress of the investigation by 2:15 PM the same day. The Court’s action was prompted by a letter submitted by advocate R. Varalakshmi, which highlighted issues related to law and order in Tamil Nadu and the safety of students, particularly in Chennai.

The alleged incident took place on December 23, 2023, when the 19-year-old student was reportedly sexually assaulted on the university campus. Following the assault, the victim approached the police to file a complaint and also reported the matter to the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of Anna University, which is responsible for handling cases of sexual harassment on campus.

In response to the complaint, the Chennai police launched an investigation and arrested a roadside biryani vendor, identified as Gnanasekaran, on December 25. The accused is alleged to have committed the assault within the premises of the university. Authorities are continuing their inquiry into the case to ensure justice is served.

The High Court’s suo motu action underscores the judiciary's proactive stance on addressing crimes against women and ensuring the safety of students. The Court emphasized the need for swift and effective action by law enforcement agencies to prevent such incidents in the future. The vacation bench also highlighted the broader implications of the case, calling attention to the need for stronger measures to maintain campus safety and protect students from such crimes.

Advocate R. Varalakshmi, in her letter to the Court, expressed concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation in the state, citing this incident as a glaring example of the threats faced by students in Chennai. She urged the Court to intervene and direct the authorities to take immediate steps to enhance security on campuses and public spaces.

The incident has sparked outrage and discussions about the safety of educational institutions and the role of university administrations in preventing such occurrences. Many have called for stricter security measures, including improved surveillance systems, increased police presence, and sensitization programs to create a safer environment for students.

The Internal Complaints Committee at Anna University is expected to conduct its own investigation into the matter alongside the police probe. The ICC’s findings will play a crucial role in ensuring institutional accountability and justice for the victim.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address issues of safety and security on campuses across the country. The High Court’s intervention sends a strong message about the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of students while holding perpetrators of such crimes accountable.