Daijiworld Media Network - Chandigarh
Chandigarh, Sep 28: Internet services have been suspended in and around Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Punjab’s Phagwara following violent student protests over an unverified allegation of sexual assault on the campus.
The move came a day after student protests escalated into vandalism, arson and a prolonged blockade of National Highway-44 outside the university. The agitation began after claims circulated on social media that an outsider had allegedly raped a female student inside the LPU campus. Police have not found evidence to substantiate the allegation so far, while an FIR has been registered and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the matter.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed the state police to take strict action against those found responsible in connection with the incident and the subsequent unrest. The Chief Minister’s Office said Mann directed Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav to visit the spot and personally assess the situation.
Security was stepped up around the university following Sunday’s violence, with a large police contingent deployed outside the LPU campus. Punjab Police also conducted a flag march at the university after the protests turned violent. ADGP Fayaz Farooqui said more than 2,000 personnel had been deployed to maintain security through the night.
Police presence remained visible around the university on Monday morning as the situation gradually returned to normal. The protests had involved damage to campus property and vehicles, while several objects were reportedly set on fire.
One of the major disruptions caused by the protests was the blockade of National Highway-44, a key road connecting the region. Students blocked the highway for more than 15 hours during the agitation. Jalandhar Police Commissioner Satinder Singh said traffic movement was restored during the intervening night of Sunday and Monday and that the situation was peaceful and under control.
With the highway reopened, normal traffic movement resumed, although security personnel continued to be deployed around the university.
The unrest has also affected LPU’s academic schedule. The university has suspended regular classes for 10 days from Monday and postponed its mid-term examinations until further notice. Students wishing to leave for their hometowns during this period have been permitted to do so after consulting their parents or guardians. Several students were seen leaving the campus on Monday.
Students who choose to remain at the university have been advised to stay inside their hostels or places of residence, avoid unnecessary movement and refrain from participating in activities connected with the unrest. The revised schedule for the postponed examinations is expected to be communicated separately by the university.
The protests began after information concerning an alleged sexual assault of a university student circulated widely on social media. Students gathered on campus demanding action and clarity over the reported incident. The agitation later escalated, with protesters damaging property and blocking the highway outside the university.
Videos circulated on social media appeared to show protesters damaging window panes and flower pots and setting objects on fire. Reports also said vehicles and other property were damaged during the violence.
LPU has denied the sexual-assault allegation, describing it as false and fabricated, while police continue to investigate the circumstances behind the claims and the subsequent violence.