NCW and SIT Vow Justice in Anna University Assault Case

The National Commission for Women met with the SIT to investigate a sexual assault at Anna University, pledging accountability and safety improvements. A NCW fact-finding committee has interacted with key stakeholders and prepared a report. Protests demand accountability as investigations continue.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) convened with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) designated to probe the alleged sexual assault of a student at Anna University.

The NCW prioritized accountability, assessing security measures at the university, connecting with stakeholders including NGOs and students, and crafting a detailed report with actionable recommendations. Emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of student safety, NCW shared updates on social media platform X.

A fact-finding committee, consisting of two members, was dispatched by NCW to Anna University following the alleged assault of a 19-year-old student in Chennai. They engaged with university authorities, the victim, her family, and NGOs to gather insights. Mamta Kumari, a member of the committee, confirmed the completion of their probe, stating that the findings have been submitted to the governor. She expressed expectations that justice would be served, acknowledging weaknesses within the university administration and police response.

Amid growing tension, ABVP activists organized a protest outside Tamil Nadu House in Delhi, criticizing the state government's handling of the case. They demanded the resignation of the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and called for stern measures against the university. A protestor highlighted the DMK government's failure, decrying that a student fell victim to such a crime under government care.

The Madras High Court mandated the creation of a Special Investigation Team comprising three senior IPS officers to thoroughly investigate the incident. The alleged assault occurred on December 23, with police reporting that an arrest has been made. The victim reported that she was threatened and assaulted by an unidentified male while conversing with a friend on campus.

(With inputs from agencies.)