Punjab university suspends classes and exams as student protests turn violent

Lovely Professional University in Punjab has delayed its mid-term exams until further notice and stopped regular classes for ten days starting September 28. The measures follow violent protests on the campus over claims of a rape and a student suicide. Students went on a rampage on Saturday by breaking property and blocking a national highway. The unrest continued on Sunday with stone-pelting, attacks on police vehicles, and fires set to academic buildings and police cars. Police used a mild lathi charge and reported that several officers were hurt. DIG Jalandhar Range Naveen Singla stated that a student living in the G-3 hostel was allegedly raped three days ago and has since gone home. Police recorded her statement and registered a First Information Report. Students also protested over the death of a student from Telangana who died by suicide on the campus two weeks ago. The university previously denied the rape and suicide claims and blamed anti-social elements for spreading confusion. Police are currently investigating both matters.

Context

Campus unrest often escalates quickly when students react to unverified claims or circulate information rapidly on social media networks. Universities typically pause academic schedules during major security incidents to protect students and restore order on campus grounds.