Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab, recently experienced significant tension and student unrest following an unverified rape claim involving a former student. The events, which unfolded on Sunday, June 23, 2024, saw students engaging in protests that included blocking a major national highway and causing damage to university property. Authorities, including the Punjab Police, swiftly responded to manage the situation and initiate an investigation.

The unrest began after a claim surfaced, allegedly made by a former female student, accusing a male student of rape. This claim, which remains unverified by official sources, quickly escalated, leading to widespread student agitation on and around the campus. Students reportedly blocked the Phagwara-Ludhiana stretch of National Highway 44 (NH-44), causing disruption to traffic and public movement. Instances of damage to university property were also reported during the protests.

In response to the escalating situation, Punjab Police deployed a significant force to the campus area. Police personnel used mild force to disperse the protesting students and restore order. Subsequently, legal action was initiated, with cases registered under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. These sections include, but are not limited to, attempt to murder (307), assaulting or obstructing a public servant (353, 332, 186), rioting (148), and unlawful assembly (149).

Key developments and official statements include:

  • LPU's Stance: The university issued an official statement urging students to disregard rumours and assuring full cooperation with law enforcement agencies. LPU confirmed that a complaint regarding an incident was received and immediately forwarded to the authorities for investigation. Crucially, the university also denied any death occurring on campus, addressing a separate rumour that may have circulated. LPU stated that the alleged incident did not occur on campus premises.
  • Police Investigation: An initial police probe suggests that the complainant and the accused were students who had been in a relationship. Authorities are investigating the claim, with preliminary findings indicating that any alleged incident may have taken place outside the university campus.
  • Current Situation: As of reports on June 25, 2024, a heavy police presence remains deployed in and around the LPU campus to maintain peace and prevent any further escalation. The situation is reported to be under control.

The incident highlights the complexities of managing information and maintaining order on large university campuses, especially in the age of rapid information dissemination through social media. Authorities continue their investigation into the unverified claim and the subsequent actions of the protesting students, with a focus on establishing facts and ensuring accountability. The university administration and police urge calm and cooperation as the inquiry proceeds.