LPU Suspends Classes for 10 Days After Violent Protests in Punjab
Lovely Professional University has suspended classes and postponed exams after violent protests over an alleged sexual assault, while police investigate the claim.
Lovely Professional University in Phagwara, Punjab, has suspended regular classes for 10 days from September 28 and postponed mid-term examinations following violent student protests over an alleged sexual assault.
The unrest began after students circulated allegations that a female student had been sexually assaulted by an outsider. Police have registered an FIR against an unidentified person and formed a Special Investigation Team to investigate the allegation, including examining CCTV footage, forensic evidence and call records.
The protests later escalated, with students blocking NH-44 and clashing with police. Vehicles were damaged and some were set on fire, while several police personnel were injured. Additional forces were deployed to restore order.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed authorities to take action against those responsible for the violence and asked the state police chief to visit the campus and assess the situation.
Police said the campus remained peaceful on Monday under heavy security, while students began leaving for their hometowns. Mobile internet was also suspended on the campus and surrounding areas.
The university has denied that the alleged rape occurred, describing the claims as false and fabricated. The police investigation is continuing, and the facts surrounding the allegation remain subject to the probe.
