Daijiworld Media Network - Sopore

Sopore, Apr 14: Violent protests broke out in Sopore town of Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Tuesday following allegations of sexual harassment involving a girl student and a senior lecturer, officials said.

The accused lecturer, identified as Ghulam Hassan Mir, has been booked after a complaint of sexual assault was filed. The incident triggered widespread outrage among students, who initially staged peaceful demonstrations demanding strict action.

However, the protests soon escalated into clashes, with incidents of vandalism and damage to school property reported. Police intervened to disperse the crowd and restore order.

According to police, eight individuals have been arrested for their alleged involvement in vandalism, while at least 25 more have been identified. “Strict action is underway against those disturbing public order,” officials stated.

Senior Superintendent of Police Iftikhar Talib confirmed that an FIR has been registered against the lecturer. Authorities have also suspended the accused from the school education department pending further investigation.

The Directorate of School Education Kashmir has ordered a time-bound departmental inquiry, appointing the Joint Director (North Kashmir) as the inquiry officer. A report is expected within 15 days.

As a precautionary measure, major educational institutions in Sopore, including Government Degree College, have been closed until April 18 to prevent further unrest.

Officials said the situation is now under control, with security forces deployed across sensitive areas. Authorities have appealed to students and residents to remain calm, assuring that strict legal action will be taken in the case.