Situation Peaceful at LPU Following Alleged Rape Protests
Police deployment increases at LPU Phagwara as students leave campus following alleged rape reports. Regular classes suspended for 10 days.
The atmosphere at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara has stabilized following a period of intense unrest. Superintendent of Police (Investigation) Harinder Gill confirmed on Monday that the campus has remained peaceful since Sunday night, even as students began departing the premises following the suspension of academic activities.
Massive Police Deployment to Maintain Order
To prevent any resurgence of violence, law enforcement agencies have implemented a heavy security presence. Superintendent Harinder Gill stated that large-scale police deployments have been stationed at all university gates to ensure law and order is strictly maintained.
Recent visuals from the campus showed:
- Heavy police presence across various campus locations.
- Students leaving the university to return to their respective hometowns.
- Security personnel conducting patrols to monitor the situation.
Background of the Unrest
The tension erupted early Sunday in Phagwara after reports began circulating on social media regarding the alleged rape of a student within the university premises. The initial reports triggered massive student protests, which subsequently turned violent, necessitating immediate police intervention.
While the investigation is currently active, authorities have noted the following:
- An FIR has been registered against several unknown individuals.
- Police are working to ascertain the exact facts surrounding the alleged incident.
- Authorities have not yet confirmed the details of the incident or identified any accused persons.
Security Measures and Flag Marches
In response to the volatility, the Punjab Police conducted flag marches across the LPU campus. ADGP Fayaz Farooqui revealed that more than 2,000 police personnel have been deployed to secure the area. Additionally, Jalandhar Police Commissioner Satinder Singh addressed rumors regarding disturbances in the hostels, clarifying that all hostels had been inspected and were found to be normal.
University Response: Classes Suspended for 10 Days
In light of the ongoing investigation and the unrest, the LPU administration has taken significant steps to manage the student population and campus safety:
- Class Suspension: Regular academic classes have been suspended for a period of 10 days, effective from September 28.
- Exam Postponement: Mid-term examinations have been postponed until further notice.
- Travel Advisory: The university has advised students who wish to return home to do so only after consulting with their parents or guardians.
The university administration has issued an appeal to all students to remain calm, adhere to official instructions, and refrain from participating in any activities that could contribute to further unrest.