Anna University Implements Bicycle-Only Policy Following Sexual Assault Incident

Chennai, Jan 5 (NationPress) Anna University has released a notice stating that students must now exclusively use bicycles within the campus grounds.

The notice, signed by the university registrar on Sunday (January 5), indicated that all cars and two-wheelers should be parked in designated areas.

Additionally, the notice prohibits delivery personnel from entering beyond the university's entrance gate, and mandates that construction workers vacate the premises after working hours.

These actions come in response to a sexual assault incident involving a second-year female student that occurred on the university’s Guindy campus on the evening of December 23.

The notice highlighted the urgent need for action against reports of sexual harassment.

It is important to mention that the National Commission for Women (NCW) previously recommended stricter access control measures to deter unauthorized individuals from entering educational institutions.

The assault took place when the second-year engineering student and her male companion, a senior student, were in a secluded area of the campus after attending a Christmas event.

According to the girl's report, the assailant attacked her male friend, severely injuring him, before dragging her to nearby bushes and raping her.

The police responded quickly, apprehending a 37-year-old roadside biryani vendor, Gnanshekharan, in connection with the crime.

This case has incited widespread outrage, prompting Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai to stage a notable protest outside his residence in Coimbatore.

During the protest, he inflicted self-harm six times to symbolize what he described as the degrading law and order situation in Tamil Nadu.

He also declared intentions to embark on a 48-day fast and visit all six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan as part of his demonstration.

Annamalai criticized the Tamil Nadu Police for leaking the FIR, which disclosed the identity of the 19-year-old victim, infringing upon her privacy.

He further accused the police of not including the suspect, Gnanshekharan, on the rowdy list despite his extensive criminal history of over 20 cases.

He alleged that this oversight was due to the suspect's connections with officials of the ruling DMK party.

The BJP leader, also a former IPS officer, presented evidence claiming that the accused was affiliated with the DMK.

He accused the party of attempting to distract from the law and order challenges in Tamil Nadu by creating a narrative centered on a North-South divide.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has announced plans to submit a comprehensive report regarding the incident to the Central Government.

NCW member Mamta Kumari visited Anna University to conduct an inquiry into the case. "We explored every corner of Anna University and performed an extensive investigation. We met with the affected girl and her family to gather all relevant information. We also consulted the Governor of Tamil Nadu to discuss this issue," stated Mamta Kumari.

"A detailed report will be forwarded to the central government through the NCW. Those found guilty will face severe penalties," she added.