Punjab: Protests at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara erupted after students raised allegations that a female student was sexually assaulted on campus.
The allegation has not been independently established. The university has denied the claim, describing reports of the alleged assault as false and unverified.
The protests later escalated into clashes, vandalism, arson and a blockade of the Jalandhar-Phagwara stretch of NH-44, prompting the deployment of additional police forces.
Police have registered an FIR and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the allegations and establish the facts.
What Has Happened So Far
Protests begin: Students gathered near Girls’ Hostel-3 after allegations circulated that a female student had been sexually assaulted. Protesters also raised concerns over hostel security and alleged inaction by the university.
Highway blocked: Students blocked NH-44 outside the university, disrupting traffic on the busy route. The road was later cleared and traffic movement restored.
Violence breaks out: The protest turned violent, with property vandalised and objects and vehicles set on fire. Police said protesters pelted stones at personnel and damaged several police vehicles. Some police personnel were also injured.
FIR, SIT formed: Police registered an FIR following a student’s complaint and constituted an SIT to investigate the allegations. Investigators are examining evidence, including CCTV footage, forensic material and phone records.
University denies allegation: LPU described the allegations as “false, baseless and fabricated” and urged students, parents and others not to circulate unverified information.
Police deployment: Additional forces were deployed on the campus and surrounding areas. Officials said the situation had been brought under control, while investigations into the alleged assault and the subsequent violence continued.
Classes suspended: LPU subsequently suspended regular classes for 10 days from Sept. 28 and postponed midterm examinations until further notice.
Students have been allowed to return home with parental consent or remain in their hostels while following safety instructions.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has directed strict action against those responsible for the LPU violence, with authorities told to ensure that the culprits are identified and face legal action.
