The Madras High Court stated on Thursday that the Anna University sexual assault case was being politicised and there was no genuine concern for women's safety. This remark came after the counsel for the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) raised concerns about the police's denial of permission for a protest over the incident.

"Anna University sexual assault case is being politicised. There is no genuine concentration on women's safety," the court said.

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The court also pulled up the media for not acting responsibly in dealing with the case. Justice P Velmurugan, while hearing the case, said the incident should have served as a wake-up call for everyone but the issue was being politicised. “I’m not saying that media should not report on the issue but definitely not the way in which they are doing. I’m ashamed to live in this era when discrimination based on gender, caste, and so on continues. All of us should be ashamed. Strictly speaking, we all are co-accused in such crimes," the court noted. 

Meanwhile, the fact-finding committee, formed by the National Commission for Women (NCW) visited the university and met the victim, her family and other parties. A detailed report was prepared after the meetings. "To ensure accountability, the NCW assessed security at Anna University, met the SIT, and engaged stakeholders... A detailed report with actionable recommendations was prepared," the NCW posted on X.

The incident took place on December 23 at the campus, where the accused sexually assaulted a 19-year-old engineering student. The miscreant also manhandled her male friend. In her complaint, the victim alleged that she was dragged into nearby shrubs where the assault occurred. 

Police nabbed one Gnanasekaran, a roadside biryani vendor, shortly after the incident. As per the probe, the accused has a long criminal record. After the outrage over the incident, the high court formed a three-member panel, comprising IAS officers, to probe the case. 

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The court had also ordered the state government to pay an interim compensation of Rs 25 lakhs to the survivor.