LPU Protest Turns Violent in Phagwara; 2,000 Police Deployed, Classes Shut for 10 Days

LIVE | LPU Rampage: Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav Visits University After Violent Student Protest

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Phagwara : Tensions at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab, escalated sharply on September 27 after student protests over an alleged sexual-assault incident turned violent. The unrest led to clashes with police, damage to property, vehicle fires and a blockade on National Highway 44. More than 2,000 police personnel were deployed around the university as authorities worked to restore order.

The protests began after claims circulated among students and on social media alleging that a female student had been sexually assaulted on the university campus. Police subsequently registered an FIR against an unidentified person based on a student's complaint. However, officials have not confirmed the allegation as established fact, and an investigation is underway.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to examine the complaint. Investigators are expected to review CCTV recordings, forensic material, phone-related evidence and statements from people who may have information about the incident. Police also inspected the hostel area identified in the complaint as the alleged location of the incident.

LPU management has disputed the allegations circulating online. The university described the claims as false and fabricated and urged students to rely on official information rather than unverified social-media reports. The university's position and the police investigation are separate from the question of what ultimately occurred, which authorities say must be established through evidence.

As the protests continued, students moved onto the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway, causing significant disruption to traffic. The blockade resulted in long queues of vehicles, while police and protesters later clashed. Reports said stones were thrown at security personnel and several vehicles were damaged or set on fire. Police personnel were also reported injured during the confrontation.

Authorities increased security around the university, with more than 2,000 personnel deployed at and around the campus. Punjab Police also conducted a flag march as officials attempted to reassure students and their families and prevent further clashes. By Monday morning, police said the situation had become peaceful.

In response to the unrest, LPU announced that regular classes would remain suspended for 10 days beginning September 28. Mid-term examinations scheduled during the period were also postponed until further notice. The university said a revised examination schedule would be communicated separately.

Students were given the option of returning to their hometowns after consulting their parents or guardians. Those who remained on campus were advised to stay inside their hostels or residences and avoid unnecessary movement or participation in activities connected with the unrest.

The incident has also highlighted the risks of unverified information spreading rapidly through social media during a tense situation. Police are investigating both the original sexual-assault complaint and the subsequent violence separately.

The investigation into the complaint remains ongoing, and authorities have not publicly established all the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident. Meanwhile, police continue to examine the violence, vandalism, arson and highway blockade that occurred during the protests.

Officials have appealed for calm while the SIT conducts its investigation. The final facts of the alleged assault and the responsibility of any individuals involved will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.