LPU under lockdown: Internet suspended, over 2,000 personnel deployed as students go on rampage, clash with cops
PTC News Desk: A complete lockdown has been triggered at the Lovely Professional University with internet services suspended, classes shut for 10 days and midterms postponed after protest at the varsity turned violent and police resorted to lathi charge.
Punjab Police conducted a flag march at the university as authorities worked to restore normalcy and reassure students and their families amid concerns triggered by reports circulating on social media.
Also Read: LPU protest turns violent, police enter campus
The allegations of sexual assault with a student inside room no 504 of G3 hostel at triggered a massive protest at Lovely Professional University. The protesters laid siege to the premises, vandalising property, hurling barricades and chairs, and were involved in minor arson incidents on the campus, which has over 30,000 students.
Also Read: Check all live updates from LPU protest here
The protests began on Saturday night after messages circulated on social media claiming that a female LPU student had allegedly been raped and subsequently died by suicide. Following the circulation of the claims, thousands of students reportedly gathered and began protesting.
Students again resorted to violence on Sunday night and allegedly set a police vehicle on fire.
The protesters claimed that police used a lathi charge after they refused to leave the highway. However, police denied using force and said the students instead pelted officers with stones.
Classes suspended for 10 days
The university has suspended classes for 10 days from Monday, September 28 and has also postponed its mid-term examinations until further notice. A revised examination schedule will be communicated to students through the University Management System (UMS), LPU said in a statement.
The university has also advised its students to remain calm and only follow official instructions. It has allowed the students to travel to their hometowns during the 10-day period in consultation with their parents or guardians.
Those who choose to remain on campus have been advised to stay inside their hostels or places of residence, avoid unnecessary movement and stay away from any unrest-related activities.
Following the unrest, Lovely Professional University (LPU) announced the suspension of regular classes. In a notice to students, the university said the decision was taken to ensure their safety and well-being.
LPU also said mid-term examinations would remain postponed until further notice. Students were advised to follow the University Management System (UMS) for further updates.
The decision came after a day of protests and clashes on the campus, during which students also blocked National Highway-44.
- PTC NEWS
