Phagwara | September 28, 2026
Protests at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab, turned violent after reports circulated among students alleging that a female student had been sexually assaulted and later died by suicide.
Students damaged university property, set vehicles and other objects on fire and blocked the Jalandhar-Phagwara National Highway during the unrest. Police subsequently registered a rape case against an unidentified person and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to establish the facts.
University Denies Allegations
LPU Registrar Monica Gulati rejected the allegations, describing the reports as false, baseless and fabricated. The university said unverified information circulating through social media had created confusion on campus.
The university also released a video featuring three students from the hostel room where the alleged assault was said to have occurred. They reportedly denied that such an incident had taken place there.
Police Register Case and Begin Investigation
Despite the university’s denial, police registered an FIR against an unknown person following statements from protesting students. Officials said the investigation would examine CCTV footage and other digital and technical evidence.
A seven-member SIT has been formed, with police officials and representatives of the protesting students included in the investigation process. Authorities said the identity and circumstances surrounding the alleged victim remain part of the investigation.
Police are also examining the separate death of a woman student from Telangana who reportedly died by suicide around two weeks earlier. Her mobile phone has been sent for forensic examination, with authorities saying further action will depend on the findings.
Violence Forces Classes to Be Suspended
The protests escalated into vandalism, arson and clashes with police. Several police vehicles and other vehicles were damaged or set on fire, while officers were injured during the confrontation.
LPU has suspended classes for 10 days from September 28 and postponed its mid-term examinations until further notice. Students were also advised to remain in their hostels or residences and avoid unnecessary movement.
The investigation will now determine whether the allegations that triggered the protests are supported by evidence, while authorities continue efforts to restore normalcy on campus.
