Punjab Women Commission seeks report on alleged LPU rape
The Punjab State Women Commission has demanded a detailed report from Kapurthala authorities regarding an alleged rape incident at LPU Phagwara.
The Punjab State Women Commission has officially intervened in the unfolding crisis at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara. Following serious allegations involving a female student, the Commission has demanded a comprehensive report from the Deputy Commissioner and the Senior Superintendent of Police in Kapurthala.
The Commission's move comes after media reports and student allegations brought the matter to light, sparking intense debate over the safety and security of female students on the university campus. In a communication issued on September 28, the Commission expressed deep concern regarding the environment for women at the institution.
Demands for Accountability and Security Details
The Commission has not just asked for an update; it has demanded specific, granular information to ensure justice is being served. The authorities have been directed to provide:
- Investigation Progress: Full details regarding the FIR registered in connection with the incident and the current status of the investigation being handled by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).
- Security Infrastructure: A breakdown of existing security measures, including the extent of CCTV surveillance, the deployment of security personnel, and how entry and exit points are monitored.
- Administrative Response: An account of the specific steps taken by both the university administration and the police to safeguard women students, as well as actions taken on complaints received during this period.
Chaos and Vandalism on Campus
The situation at LPU escalated significantly during the night of September 26 and 27. According to DGP Gaurav Yadav, the tension was triggered by "late-night rumours" circulating about certain incidents at the university. These rumours led to a massive student gathering that spiraled into unrest.
"There was some vandalism, and a part of the gate was set on fire," DGP Yadav stated, describing the scene of the unrest. He noted that while students were upset with the university administration over specific grievances, the police had to step in to act as a bridge between the students and the management to prevent further escalation.
The Role of Outsiders and the SIT Investigation
As the investigation deepens, police have raised suspicions that the unrest may not have been entirely internal. DGP Yadav revealed that walkie-talkies were discovered on the premises, suggesting the potential involvement of outsiders in the chaos.
The police are currently using several methods to identify those responsible for the damage to university property, including:
- Reviewing extensive CCTV footage.
- Utilizing scientific methods to track participants in the vandalism.
- Investigating the link to external elements via the recovered communication devices.
The DGP issued a stern warning that the law would be applied equally to everyone. "Whoever is involved in the incident related to the students, strict legal action will be taken against them. No matter how big a person they are, whether it's from the university administration or anyone else, the law will take its course," he emphasized.
One of the key demands raised by the students during these dialogues was for the university to ensure that only female staff are stationed in the girls' hostels. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has ordered strict action against those responsible and has directed the DGP to personally monitor the situation at LPU.