LPU suspends classes for 10 days, postpones mid-term exams amid violent protests
Lovely Professional University suspends classes for 10 days and postpones mid-term exams following violent protests over an alleged campus rape case.
In a significant escalation of the unrest in Phagwara, Lovely Professional University (LPU) has announced a 10-day suspension of all regular classes and the indefinite postponement of mid-term examinations. This drastic measure comes in response to violent protests erupting on campus following allegations of a rape incident involving a student.
Safety First: University issues emergency guidelines
The university administration issued an official statement on September 28, citing the safety and well-being of the student body as the primary reason for these decisions. The suspension of regular academic activities is set to last for 10 days, effective from Monday, September 28, 2026.
Regarding the academic calendar, the university stated:
- Mid-Term Examinations: Postponed until further notice.
- Revised Schedule: Students will be notified of new exam dates via the University Management System (UMS).
- Student Movement: Students are encouraged to consult with parents and guardians about traveling to their hometowns during this period.
For those choosing to remain on campus, the administration has issued a stern advisory to stay inside hostels or places of residence and to avoid any unnecessary movement or involvement in unrest to ensure personal safety.
Protests spark chaos in Phagwara
The situation turned volatile early Sunday morning when news began circulating on social media regarding the alleged rape of a student within the university premises. The reports triggered massive student protests across the Phagwara area, leading to a breakdown of normalcy.
While the atmosphere remains tense, police officials have noted that the investigation is currently underway to verify the facts. As of now, authorities have not officially confirmed whether the alleged incident took place within the campus boundaries, and the identity of any accused individual remains unknown. An FIR has been registered against several unidentified persons as the probe continues.
Political fallout and calls for intervention
The escalating violence has also drawn sharp political criticism. Punjab Congress working president Raj Kumar Verka has pointed fingers at both the Central and the Punjab state governments, alleging that their failure to act has incited the ongoing riots.
Speaking to the media, Verka expressed deep concern over the lack of control, stating:
"I believe both the Central government and the Punjab government have failed; it is their responsibility to intervene immediately... I feel that a proper investigation has not been conducted; everything is happening in a state of panic."
Verka further criticized both the university authorities and the local administration, suggesting that neither side seems to have a firm grip on the situation, leaving students feeling unheard. He has called upon both the student community and the administration to engage in dialogue to bring the situation under control responsibly.