Anna University sexual assault case: ‘Deeply pained, will always stand by women as a brother’, says Vijay

Expressing anguish over the Anna University sexual assault case, actor and Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam leader Vijay said he would always stand by women as a brother and guardian. The actor-politician reportedly also met with Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi over the issue.

Vijay said he was deeply pained by the incident and slammed the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam for deteriorating law and order situation in the state. In a letter, the TVK leader said it is a known fact that there is no point in raising issues of women's security with the present government.

“I will always stand by you, as a brother and as a guardian. Hence don’t worry about anything and focus on studies,” Vijay said. Hinting about forming the government in the state, Vijay said they would soon establish a safe Tamil Nadu.

A 19-year-old student of the top university was allegedly sexually assaulted within the campus premises recently and the incident led to widespread outrage from opposition parties and civil society. One person has been arrested so far in connection with the incident and police are on the lookout for another accused in the case.

Recently, the Madras High Court criticised Chennai police for the manner in which the case was handled and constituted a Special Investigation Team comprising women police officers to probe the case. The Court also ordered the state government to pay compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the victim as interim relief and directed Anna University to not collect any fees from the student and ensure the successful completion of her course.

Vijay meets Tamil Nadu governor

Meanwhile, the actor-politician met with Governor R.N. Ravi on Monday and submitted a memorandum seeking measures to ensure the safety of women and improve the law and order situation in the state. The actor also urged that the Centre should release funds sought by the state government to mitigate damages caused by the monsoon and Cyclone Fengal.