Delhi’s SAU Faces Sexual Assault Allegation: Students Demand Suspension of Wardens, Investigation

Female student at South Asian University (SAU) in New Delhi was allegedly sexually assaulted by four individuals on campus, prompting widespread student protests and calls for enhanced security measures. The assault, which reportedly involved an attempt at gangrape, has exposed vulnerabilities in campus safety protocols and sparked debates on mental health support for students.

The victim, a young woman who had recently relocated to the SAU campus just two weeks prior after a year in Kota preparing for exams, was reported missing on October 12. She was discovered the following day, October 13, in a distressed state near the university auditorium—her clothes torn and bearing visible injuries. A PCR call alerted the Maidan Garhi police station around 3 pm on Monday, leading to an immediate response.

"Based on the victim's statement, we have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the IPC, including charges related to sexual assault and attempt to gangrape," stated Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Ankit Chauhan. "The investigation is progressing with utmost sensitivity, prioritizing the survivor's well-being. We have requested CCTV footage from the university to reconstruct her movements after she left her hostel."

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Police sources revealed that the student described being pulled aside by the four assailants near the auditorium, highlighting a potential security lapse in that area. She was promptly rushed to a nearby hospital for a thorough medical examination and is currently receiving counseling. During sessions, she disclosed ongoing treatment for depression stemming from her parents' separation—her father resides in Bihar, while her mother is in Mumbai. This personal background has added layers to the case, with authorities emphasizing the need for compassionate handling and potential psychological support networks.

As details emerged on Monday evening, hundreds of SAU students mobilized in fury, gathering at the administrative block to decry the university's alleged insensitivity and delayed response in notifying law enforcement. The protest evolved into an eight-hour sit-in, with demonstrators demanding swift justice, installation of better lighting and surveillance, and implementation of stricter access controls for outsiders. Chants of solidarity echoed through the campus, underscoring broader concerns about women's safety in educational institutions across India.

In response, SAU issued a formal statement on Tuesday, condemning the incident unequivocally. "The South Asian University condemns this alleged act of sexual violence in the strongest terms and in one voice. We stand with our students and assure them of our full support," the statement read. It reiterated the institution's zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and violence against women, pledging cooperation with the police probe.

"We, the SAU community—faculty, staff, and students—stand in solidarity in light of this alleged horrific act. SAU is committed to fostering a safe environment and will take all necessary steps to prevent such occurrences," the university added, announcing plans for emergency town halls and awareness sessions on gender sensitivity.

The incident occurs amid a national reckoning with campus safety, following similar cases at other prominent universities that have led to policy reforms. Women's rights activists have called for independent audits of SAU's security infrastructure, while student unions vow to sustain pressure until accountability is ensured. As the investigation unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic changes to protect vulnerable students in higher education settings. Police have assured that arrests are imminent, with forensic teams analyzing evidence from the scene.

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