LPU campus tense over unverified rape claim - what we know so far

On Sunday morning, students at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab disrupted the Jalandhar-Phagwara national highway and caused damage to property following unverified social media reports of a female student's alleged rape. Police stated they had no knowledge of any such crime. The unrest was reportedly triggered by rumors, with police Superintendent of Police Gaurav Toora noting that when they arrived, they learned the students were protesting due to unfounded claims.

Videos showed students breaking window panes, damaging flower pots, and setting objects on fire, while also blocking the highway. Students also expressed grievances with the LPU administration, stating their issues were not being properly addressed. Police are working to resolve these concerns, and an assessment of the property damage is underway.

A heavy police presence remains at the university, with Toora confirming the situation is now under control. Notably, this incident occurred the day after a similar protest at Chitkara University in Patiala following unverified claims that two female students had died by suicide on campus.