Classes suspended at LPU for 10 days after campus protests turn violent

What Happened

Lovely Professional University has suspended regular classes for 10 days starting September 28 and postponed mid-term exams until further notice following violent student protests in Phagwara. Protests broke out early Sunday after students alleged that a girl was sexually assaulted on campus by an outsider. The unrest led to property damage, arson, stone-pelting at police, and a blockade of National Highway 44. Police reported that two vehicles were set on fire and several personnel were injured before security forces entered the campus to control the situation.

Investigation

Police have registered a rape FIR against an unidentified person and formed a Special Investigation Team to look into the matter. However, police stated that preliminary checks have not yet confirmed the allegation, and three students present in the room where the assault was reportedly said to have occurred denied any such incident. The university rejected the claims as false, baseless, and fabricated, while advising students to stay in their hostels or return home after consulting their parents.

Context

Campus protests over safety concerns and alleged crimes can quickly escalate into large-scale unrest when students feel unheard by authorities. Universities often suspend academic schedules and examinations during such crises to restore order and ensure the safety of the campus community while official investigations take place.