AIDSO stages protest against rape of student by college lecturers in Bengaluru

The Mysuru district committee of the All India Democratic Students Organisation (AIDSO) held a demonstration near the old Deputy Commissioner’s office in Mysuru on Wednesday to condemn the “heinous act” of rape and blackmail of a girl student by lecturers of a private college in Bengaluru.

The representatives of AIDSO demanded not only the severe punishment of the accused involved in the incident, but also the implementation of strict measures in educational institutions to protect students from sexual harassment and abuse.

The protesters, also comprising students from different colleges in the city, said that a strong grievance redressal system should also be established in educational institutions.

They demanded a quick, impartial, and thorough investigation into the incident so that all culprits are immediately brought before the law. The protesters also demanded the immediate suspension of the accused lecturers.

State treasurer of AIDSO Subhash Bettadakoppa, who spoke at the protest, pointed out that incidents of violence against women were increasing day by day.

While referring to a case in Odisha where a female student, distressed by sexual harassment from college lecturers, died by suicide after setting herself on fire, Mr. Bettadakoppa said that if the culprits are not given strict punishment, such incidents will increase.

He added that the terrible incident was a reflection of the widespread problem of sexual abuse in educational institutions. “It is a tragedy that teachers, who are supposed to cleanse young minds and brighten their future, are involved in such heinous acts,” he said.

The protesters also urged the government to organise programs in colleges to instill high ideals and values in students and youth.

AIDSO Mysuru district president Chandrakala, district secretary Nithin, district vice-president Swathi, district committee office bearers Hema, Chandrika, Disha, Anjali, Abhishek, and students from Maharaja and Maharani colleges were also present on the occasion, said a press statement issued by the organisers.