A massive protest erupted at the Gudlavalleru College of Engineering in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, after a hidden camera was reportedly discovered in a girls’ hostel washroom. The camera allegedly recorded over 300 videos, which were circulated among students in the boys’ hostel, causing widespread outrage and raising concerns about student safety and privacy on campus, reported India Today.
Shockwaves in #AndhraPradesh: Hidden cameras in girls’ hostel washroom, hundreds of videos sold
Know more?https://t.co/JPzpoAIDyP pic.twitter.com/LiL0LjjLm4
— The Times Of India (@timesofindia) August 30, 2024
The incident came to light when a student discovered the hidden camera, sparking a protest on Thursday night. Hundreds of students, chanting slogans like “We want justice” demanded strict action against those responsible for installing the camera and sharing the videos.
In response, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu ordered an inquiry into the matter. A case was registered and a final-year student, identified as Vijay, was detained for allegedly being involved in the incident. The police seized his laptop, recovering around 300 objectionable videos, which they suspect were sold and later circulated among students, according to Hindustan Times.
However, the college administration denied the existence of any hidden cameras in the girls’ hostel and stated that they were fully cooperating with the police investigation. Police officials also echoed the administration’s stance, stating that no hidden cameras were found during their thorough inspection of the hostel, reported Economic Times. They examined the electronic devices of the accused in the presence of students and college staff and claimed that they had found no incriminating evidence.
Amid these conflicting claims, some students accused the college management of trying to cover up the issue and threatening those who wanted to file a complaint. The students have vowed not to attend classes until their demands for justice and stricter security are met.
Minister K. Ravindra assured the students that the truth would come out and that anyone found guilty would face strict punishment.