An 18-year-old first-year B.Tech student at South Asian University (SAU) alleged she was sexually assaulted by four men, including a security guard, on October 12, 2025, inside the university campus. She reported receiving sexually explicit and threatening messages, including morphed obscene photographs of herself, days prior to the assault.
According to the FIR filed with Delhi Police, an attempt was made to strip her and force a pill down her throat during the attack. The survivor also described verbal threats and physical assault before the perpetrators fled when noticed by another individual.
Police registered a case under sections related to gang rape and offenses punishable with life imprisonment. Over 100 people, including 67 security guards and several staff and students, have been questioned, while CCTV footage is under review.
Student Protests and Institutional Response
The incident sparked widespread protests across the SAU campus, with hundreds of students demanding justice, the suspension of accused staff, and a safe campus environment. Demonstrators accused the university of a delayed and insufficient response, with initial reports citing that hostel officials told the survivor to “take a bath and change clothes” instead of immediately aiding her.
Various student organizations called for independent inquiries and administrative accountability. The university administration condemned the act in its strongest terms and assured full cooperation with authorities. It formed an internal inquiry committee promising transparency and support for the survivor, including medical, psychological, and academic assistance.
However, students remain skeptical and continue protests calling for structural reforms.
Authorities’ Actions and Oversight
The National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo motu cognisance of the case, writing to Delhi Police and SAU’s President requesting urgent, impartial action and support for the survivor. The NCW mandated the suspension of accused individuals pending inquiry and demanded an Action Taken Report within three days, emphasizing that any attempt to shield culprits or suppress survivor narratives would attract legal consequences.
The Union Ministry of External Affairs, under whose jurisdiction SAU falls, has also sought a detailed report from the university. Delhi Police continues to investigate, thoroughly reviewing more than 40 CCTV cameras and following leads from threatening communications sent from inside the campus.
Despite extensive interrogations, the accused have yet to be identified nor arrested. The police stressed a sensitive approach towards the survivor during the ongoing probe.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for universities nationwide to establish robust safeguarding protocols and foster a culture that supports survivors unconditionally. Institutional apathy, delay, and victim-blaming are unacceptable and impede justice, safety, and healing.
Educational institutions must prioritise transparent, empathetic responses and overhaul security measures to ensure no student feels unsafe within campus grounds.
The Logical Indian stands unequivocally with the survivor and supports the student community’s demand for accountability and genuine reform.
