A group of students has gathered inside the campus, and is holding a silent protest.
Photo : Times Now
In a shocking revelation, Times Now has accessed exclusive email communication suggesting that the administration at South Asian University (SAU) attempted to suppress a sexual harassment incident involving a first-year B.Tech student on campus.
According to sources, Warden Rinkoo D Gupta was aware of the student’s distress but allegedly referred to the episode as a mere “panic attack” and an incident of “self-harm”.
The email send to Warden Rinkoo D Gupta read, “This is to inform you that a girl … is having panic attacks and trying to hurt herself. Her T-shirt is also torn. Dr. Priyadarshini has examined her and observed that her vitals are normal; however, it may be a case of molestation. Dr. Priyadarshini has recommended filing an FIR and further taking her to the Safdarjung Hospital for a complete check-up and treatment. Your approval is required for filing an FIR with the local police regarding this.”
Students allege that no ambulance was called despite the student’s condition. Instead, the administration allegedly instructed students to “act normal” and avoid making a “big deal” out of the situation.
Outrage has since erupted on campus, with students accusing the university of insensitivity, negligence, and a deliberate cover-up. They have now submitted a detailed Memorandum of Demands to the university administration, calling for justice, transparency, and institutional reform.
The memorandum, dated October 14, seeks an immediate and transparent investigation, suspension of Warden Rinkoo D. Gupta and faculty member Anupama Arora, and legal action against those involved. It also calls for the resignation of the Dean of Students and the Proctor, citing repeated administrative failures and “a culture of impunity.”
Students have demanded student representation under Vishakha Guidelines, a time-bound action plan, financial and emotional support for the survivor, and strict non-retaliation measures to protect those speaking up. They have also sought 24/7 on-campus medical aid, a functional ambulance, and better lighting and security around Gaushala Road — an area students say remains unsafe.
While the university claims it is now taking the matter seriously, students insist that trust has already been broken, and warn that any further delay in accountability will lead to escalated protests through democratic means.
The incident has once again raised urgent questions about campus safety, institutional accountability, and the culture of silence within higher education spaces.