Students at Gudlavalleru College of Engineering, particularly female students, have expressed outrage and fear after discovering a hidden camera in the girls' hostel bathroom.
The incident has ignited a wave of protests on campus, with students demanding immediate justice and heightened security measures to ensure their safety.
As India Today reports, the camera was reportedly discovered by a student in the bathroom, triggering a swift and intense reaction from the hostel's residents. Shocked by the invasion of their privacy, the students quickly mobilised, organising a protest that drew widespread attention across the college. Chanting slogans and holding placards, the protesters demanded swift action against those responsible for violating their privacy.
The protests, which escalated throughout the day, saw students demanding the identification and punishment of the culprits and the implementation of more robust security measures to prevent such incidents in the future. Their demands included the installation of additional CCTV cameras in common areas, the hiring of female security personnel, and routine checks to ensure the absence of any hidden surveillance devices in the hostel.
The anger and frustration among the students were palpable, with many expressing their concerns about safety on campus. "We trusted the hostel to be our safe space," said one of the protesting students. "This incident has shattered that trust, and we need the college administration to take serious steps to protect us."
In response to the protests, the college management issued a statement condemning the incident and assuring the students of a thorough investigation. A committee has been formed to investigate the matter, and the management has promised to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies.
The local police have also taken swift action, registering a case and launching an investigation. The camera has been sent for forensic analysis, and authorities are working to trace its origins and identify those involved in its installation.
This incident has raised significant concerns about students' overall safety and privacy in educational institutions. The students' demands for increased security measures reflect a growing anxiety about the adequacy of current protections. As the investigation continues, the administration faces mounting pressure to resolve this case and implement long-term measures that will reassure students and their families.
