LPU protests: BJP leader Ravneet Bittu alleges AAP conspiracy
BJP leader Ravneet Bittu claims AAP orchestrated LPU unrest to disrupt Amit Shah's upcoming Jalandhar rally.
In a major political escalation following the unrest at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab, BJP leader and former Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu has leveled serious allegations against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Bittu claimed that the recent disturbances were part of a calculated "AAP conspiracy" intended to derail Union Home Minister Amit Shah's scheduled massive rally in Jalandhar on September 30.
Allegations of Political Sabotage
Taking to the social media platform X, Bittu suggested that the chaos at the university was a diversionary tactic. He argued that the unrest was designed to shift public attention away from recent political controversies involving the AAP, specifically regarding bungalow allotments to Delhi leaders and the Gayatri Bishnoi matter.
The BJP leader further asserted that the ruling party in Punjab is feeling the pressure due to the widespread popularity of the BJP's anti-drug initiatives. He alleged that the unrest was also connected to Ashok Mittal's departure from the AAP, suggesting that the party may have intended to pressure the university into a shutdown.
Claims Against Top AAP Leadership
Bittu did not mince words when targeting the top brass of the AAP. He alleged that:
- Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Arvind Kejriwal, and Manish Sisodia were behind the unrest.
- Miscreants were allegedly sent into the LPU campus to settle political scores.
- The police initially maintained a lax stance, which allowed the situation to spiral into arson and vandalism.
The BJP leader claimed that this lack of immediate intervention led to injuries among both students and police personnel. However, it is important to note that Bittu did not provide specific evidence to substantiate these claims of direct involvement by the top leadership.
Current Situation at LPU and Government Response
While the political rhetoric intensifies, the ground reality at the university has seen a temporary calm. As of Monday morning, the situation at the campus was reported to be peaceful. Superintendent of Police (Investigation) Harinder Gill confirmed that a large-scale police deployment is in place at all campus gates to prevent any further escalation.
In response to the violence, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has ordered a strict investigation. He has directed DGP Gaurav Yadav to visit the site personally to assess the circumstances and ensure order is maintained.
University Measures and Ongoing Investigation
LPU has taken significant administrative steps in the wake of the protests, including:
- Suspension of Classes: Regular academic activities have been suspended for 10 days, starting from September 28.
- Exam Postponement: Mid-term examinations have been pushed back until further notice.
- Student Safety: The university has advised students to consult with parents before traveling home and has urged everyone to remain calm and avoid any involvement in unrest.
Law enforcement agencies are currently investigating the reports that initially triggered the protests. While an FIR has been registered against several unidentified individuals, authorities have not yet confirmed certain allegations, including reports of a rape incident, as the investigation continues.