Even a week after a differently-abled student was assaulted in the union room of Thiruvananthapuram’s University College, the police have been unable to apprehend the SFI members allegedly involved. Additionally, no action has been taken by the college against the accused.
The Cantonment Police stated that the accused are in hiding. Meanwhile, tensions escalated on Friday as a KSU-led protest march to the college led to clashes. The incident occurred last Monday when Anas, a second-year degree student, was reportedly beaten by SFI unit office bearers in the union room. Based on Anas’ complaint, a case was registered under non-bailable sections the following day. However, the police have yet to arrest the four accused.
Searches were conducted at the accused’s residences, but they remain at large. The police claimed that the accused managed to evade capture after learning about the case being filed. The police suggested that publicizing the case led the accused to switch off their phones and go into hiding.
The accused include Vidhu Uday, SFI Unit Secretary; Amal Chand, Unit President; and committee members Mithun and Allen Jamal. One of the accused, Allen Jamal, has already sought anticipatory bail, and the others are likely to follow suit.
The college’s disciplinary committee has made little progress in its investigation into the complaint. Anas provided his statement to the committee only today. The incident has drawn sharp criticism, with the Governor expressing his dismay over the assault.
