Students' protest outside LPU turns violent in Phagwara, vehicles set on fire
Protests at Lovely Professional University turn violent as students clash with police and set vehicles on fire over alleged campus rape.
A demonstration by students outside Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara escalated into chaos on Sunday, resulting in violent clashes with law enforcement and the burning of vehicles. The unrest, sparked by allegations of a sexual assault on campus, saw protesters blocking the national highway and causing significant property damage.
Clashes and Vandalism on National Highway
The situation turned volatile during the early hours of Sunday. According to DIG Jalandhar Range Naveen Singla, a large number of students gathered around 2 AM to block the National Highway. The protesters were demanding immediate action regarding an alleged rape of a female student from the G3 hostel that reportedly occurred three days prior.
The confrontation between the demonstrators and the police led to several casualties and damages. SSP Jalandhar Harvinder Singh Virk confirmed that police personnel sustained injuries during the clash. Furthermore, several police vehicles were damaged during the unrest.
University Claims Rumors and Outside Interference
LPU Dean Sorabh Lakhanpal addressed the growing tension, stating that the university has taken the students' concerns seriously. He noted that the administration had permitted students to review CCTV footage and visit the specific room identified in the allegations to ensure transparency.
However, Lakhanpal expressed the view that the situation appeared to be "entirely rumour-driven." He alleged that anti-social elements from outside the campus were involved in the unrest, suggesting a conspiracy aimed at disrupting the academic environment. The Dean further claimed that these outsiders were responsible for the vandalism seen during the protest.
Ongoing Investigation and SIT Formation
While the police have begun the legal process, they have not yet confirmed the validity of the rape allegation. An FIR has been registered against multiple unidentified individuals as the investigation continues. The police are currently working to establish the facts and identify the accused.
DIG Naveen Singla announced that the probe will be conducted using scientific methods, including:
- Forensic analysis of evidence.
- CCTV footage examination.
- Phone data analysis.
To ensure a thorough investigation, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) will be formed to apprehend the culprit quickly. While the identity of the alleged victim and the accused remains under investigation, police are working to verify the details provided by the students.
Demands for Accountability
Beyond the primary allegation, students raised additional concerns regarding the management of both boys' and girls' hostels. A meeting between the university management and student leaders was scheduled to address these grievances and provide the transparency the students are demanding.
A student present at the scene defended the student body, claiming that while the protest was legitimate, the vandalism was the work of outsiders. "The vandalism committed by the outsiders is their responsibility; beyond that, we don't want anything else," the student stated, emphasizing that the core demand is for accountability and transparent communication from the university.