Three FIRs over violence in LPU, 18-hour NH-44 blockade; police book unidentified persons

Three separate First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in connection with the violence at Lovely Professional University (LPU), the blockade of the NH-44 highway, and the alleged vandalism and looting at Uni Mall. The incidents occurred on September 27, starting around 2.00 am. The FIRs, registered at Sadar Phagwara and Satnampura police stations, address distinct aspects of the unrest.

The first FIR (number 105) registered at Sadar Phagwara Police Station pertains to the blockade of the highway and traffic on NH-44, near Chaheru. According to the report, police received information about several protesters - including students - sitting on either side of the highway. Despite efforts by senior police officers to persuade the crowd to clear the highway, the protesters remained unmoved.

The gathering comprised both students and unidentified non-student miscreants. The case was registered under the BNS Section 285 for danger or obstruction in a public way, and Section 8B of the National Highways Act. The blockade persisted for over 18 hours, causing significant disruption on a major Punjabi highway.

The second FIR (number 106) also registered at Sadar Phagwara, deals with alleged violence during the attempts to clear the highway. The FIR involves sections BNS 109, 132, 221, 324, and 326, which relate to attempted murder, assault or criminal force against a public servant, obstructing a public servant, causing hurt or grievous hurt with a dangerous weapon, and voluntarily causing hurt or grievous hurt.

Allegations of stone-pelting, physical violence against police personnel, and damage to police vehicles have been raised. However, no individual has been named as an accused yet.

The third FIR (number 163) registered at Satnampura Police Station concerns alleged looting and damage at Uni Mall and inside the university. The FIR alleges that university structures, administrative buildings, and outlets inside Uni Mall were damaged during the unrest. The case invokes sections BNS 309 for robbery, and provisions under the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

No specific individuals have been identified as responsible for the alleged looting at this stage. The investigation is now focused on identifying the alleged perpetrators through video recordings and other available evidence.