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In a chilling incident that highlights the vulnerabilities of Delhi’s educational hubs, an 18-year-old B.Tech first-year student of South Asian University (SAU) has alleged that she was targeted as part of a blackmailing scheme, which culminated in an attempted gang rape on the campus on October 12, 2025. The SAARC-founded institute, under the Ministry of External Affairs, is now facing scrutiny over the way it handled the matter, sparking student protests and demands for accountability.

The incident began two days ago with an anonymous threatening email demanding the victim to meet her near Maidangarhi Guest House or face consequences. She ignored the first email, but became nervous after the second email, which was full of obscenity and asked her to move out of the hostel. Vigilant friends inspected the place, but found it empty, and she was advised to rest.

On Sunday, matters escalated through WhatsApp and Telegram: obscene pictures were sent using her profile photo and threats were made that they would be made viral if she did not come to Gate No. 3. Alone and frightened, she turned onto a deserted road towards the construction site of the convocation centre, where she noticed a security guard. He reportedly called a middle-aged man, who was soon joined by two youths. The four youths dragged her into an empty room, tore her clothes, touched her and one put an abortion pill in her mouth – and spat it out while threatening to kill her “baby”. The attackers ran away after hearing the sound of people coming into the mess; Later she was found unconscious near the theatre.

After the attack, the victim accused SAU officials of gaslighting: the hostel warden rejected her pleas, suggested she take a bath to “clean up”, and stopped calling her parents, even hiding her injuries while trying to make a video. Despite being warned by the doctor about his injury, the staff reportedly preferred to keep him quiet.

On Monday, a PCR call from a friend alerted Maidangarhi police; The victim, who was initially very distressed, underwent counseling and examination at Madan Mohan Malviya Hospital. Following her statement on Tuesday, an FIR was registered under sections 70 (gang rape), 62 (attempt), 123 (causing hurt by means of poison), 140(3) (kidnapping) and others of the Indian Justice Code. DCP South Ankit Chauhan has promised a sensitive investigation, including CCTV scans—though the administration’s hesitation is raising alarm bells.

Outcry erupts: Protests led by NSUI, ABVP, SFI boycott classes, demand suspension of warden, inclusion of students in investigation and increased security. SAU condemned the “horrific act”, constituted a 10-day inquiry panel and pledged zero tolerance. The Foreign Ministry has asked for a detailed report amid fears of repression. With Delhi grappling with rising attacks—like the recent rape at the Adarsh ​​Nagar hotel—this case highlights the urgent need for vigilant campuses and swift justice.