Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered an investigation following the discovery of a hidden camera in the washroom of a girls’ hostel at Gudlavalleru College of Engineering in Krishna district. The camera was found late Thursday, prompting hundreds of female students to stage an overnight protest demanding action against those responsible.
The uproar began when a student alerted her peers about the hidden camera, sparking outrage and fears over privacy violations. Allegations surfaced that footage from the camera was circulated among boys in the hostel and that a senior female student from the final year had assisted in setting up the device.
Protesting students gathered before the college, chanting, “We want justice,” and calling for swift action against the perpetrators. Tensions escalated when some students attempted to confront another accused of selling illicit videos. Police arrived on the scene, detaining a final-year B.Tech student and confiscating his laptop and mobile phones.
Krishna District Superintendent of Police R. Gangadhar Rao conducted a preliminary inquiry and reported that no hidden cameras were found during a thorough hostel check. “We have seized the suspect’s electronic devices in the presence of students and staff. No incriminating videos were found. There is no need for the girl students to worry about this issue. Further investigation is ongoing,” Rao stated.
An official statement from the Chief Minister’s office confirmed that Naidu had directed District Minister Kollu Ravindra and SP Rao to speak with the students to ascertain the facts. State Education Minister Nara Lokesh also responded, assuring that stringent action would be taken if any wrongdoing is confirmed.
“I have requested details about the protest by female students at Gudlavalleru Engineering College. An inquiry into the hidden camera allegations is underway, and strict action will be taken against the culprits if proven guilty. College managements must implement measures to prevent ragging and harassment,” Lokesh wrote on social media platform X.