Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) Founder-President Thol. Thirumavalavan on Wednesday called for immediate action regarding the alleged sexual assault of a second-year student on the Anna University campus in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday night when a second-year student was sexually assaulted by two men. Authorities have confirmed the arrest of one person in connection with the case.
Expressing concern over the incident, Thirumavalavan highlighted the fear such crimes instill in students and their families.
“The Tamil Nadu government should take decisive steps to ensure the culprits of this heinous crime are brought to justice. Anna University is one of Tamil Nadu’s most prestigious institutions, and such incidents will alarm parents and students alike. I urge the police to implement stringent measures to protect students in universities, institutions, and hostels. The rising influence of drug abuse is contributing to the surge in such crimes,” he said.
Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party chief Vijay also reacted, describing the news as “deeply shocking and painful.”
Vijay urged the state government to take swift action, stating, “Although the police have informed that a person who sexually assaulted has been arrested, I urge the Tamil Nadu government to take swift legal action against him and ensure appropriate punishment. Also, if anyone else is involved in this heinous crime, appropriate action should be taken against them promptly.” He further called for measures to ensure women’s safety in public spaces.
Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President K. Annamalai criticized the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led government over rising crimes against women, stating they are at an all-time high.
Speaking to reporters, Annamalai detailed the incident, explaining that it occurred when a fourth-year male student and a second-year female student were on campus. Two unidentified men allegedly attacked them, beating the male student and sexually assaulting the female student.
“There are some terms that are new to Tamil Nadu. One of them is gang rape. We have been hearing it frequently over the past three years. Crimes against women are at an all-time high. This incident is not only shocking but leaves us paralysed with shame. In one of the safest places, Chennai—specifically the sprawling Anna University campus, which has existed for decades—a girl and a boy were attacked. The boy was beaten, and the girl was brutally sexually assaulted, sustaining injuries,” Annamalai said.
He criticized the state government’s law and order management and called for the police to be allowed to conduct a thorough investigation.
“The CCTVs on campus were not functioning, which reflects the current state of law and order and administration in Tamil Nadu. This is a moment of collective shame. We hope the police will be allowed to do their job without interference. With all MLAs and MPs in Chennai belonging to the DMK, is this how the city ensures the safety of its people? I hope and pray the Tamil Nadu government takes action. At least let this incident be the last of its kind,” he added.
