TVK Chief Vijay Meets Tamil Nadu Guv RN Ravi, Highlights Anna University Sexual Assault, Law & Order Situation

Actor-turned-politician Vijay on Monday met Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi in Chennai. In the meeting, TVK chief Vijay highlighted public outrage over sexual assault incident at Anna University and law and order situation in state. The assault of a second-year student on December 23 has ignited protests throughout Tamil Nadu. One person has been arrested, and four special police teams are actively investigating the case.

The Students' Federation of India (SFI) and the All India Women Welfare Federation have staged protests outside Anna University's Guindy campus. They are demanding justice for the victim and calling for stricter security measures to protect women in educational institutions.

Political Reactions and Demands

Vijay, who leads the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), expressed his shock and pain over the incident. In a statement posted on X, he said, "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 also be taken against them promptly."

He suggested using the Nirbhaya Fund to install smart poles with emergency buttons, CCTV cameras, and telephones in vulnerable areas. Vijay also called for better restroom facilities in public spaces and proposed launching mobile apps and hotlines dedicated to women's safety.

Judicial Actions and Compensation

The Madras High Court has formed an all-women IPS officers' Special Investigation Team (SIT). This team includes Sneha Priya, Ayman Jamal, and Brinda. Their task is to investigate both the sexual assault and the leak of the victim's FIR.

The court ordered the Tamil Nadu government to provide Rs 25 lakh as compensation to the victim. It also directed Anna University to offer free education along with boarding, lodging, and counselling support for her. Additionally, warnings were issued to the Tamil Nadu DGP to prevent future FIR leaks in sexual offence cases.

Political Pressure Intensifies

The incident has increased political pressure on the ruling DMK government. BJP Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai staged a dramatic protest on Friday by whipping himself outside his home. This was a symbolic gesture against what he termed as DMK's "failure" in ensuring women's safety.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has sent a two-member fact-finding team to investigate the case further. They aim to monitor how effectively the government responds to this situation.