Full Breakdown
Campus Unrest at Lovely Professional University Over Unverified Assault Claims
By Drooid · · How we work
Campus Unrest at LPU
On the early morning of September 27, 2026, students at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab, gathered around Girls’ Hostel 3 after social-media posts alleged that a female student had been sexually assaulted and had subsequently died by suicide. Protesters blocked National Highway-44, hurled stones and bottles, and set fire to police vehicles and campus property. Police responded with a lathi charge to disperse the crowd.
Background and Triggering Claims
The allegations originated from rapidly circulating videos that showed men with knives entering the hostel and a claim that the victim had been locked in her room. Public figures, including Abhijeet Dipke of the Cockroach Janata Party, amplified the narrative, describing the situation as a “serious problem” for women’s safety on campus. No official verification of the assault or suicide has been presented.
University and Police Response
LPU issued a statement calling the rumors “false, baseless and fabricated” and asserted that the campus remains secure. The university announced a 10-day suspension of regular classes beginning September 28, 2026, and postponed mid-term examinations until further notice, advising students to return home after consulting guardians.
Punjab Police registered an FIR against an unknown individual and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine forensic evidence, CCTV footage, and phone data. Police officials, including Jalandhar Police Commissioner Satinder Singh, reported that the situation was brought under control and remained peaceful by nightfall.
Impact on Campus Operations
The suspension affects all regular classes for ten days, with the revised examination schedule to be released through LPU’s Unified Management System (UMS). Students who remain on campus have been instructed to stay inside hostels and avoid unnecessary movement. The highway blockade caused several hours of traffic disruption between Jalandhar and Phagwara.
Ongoing Investigation
The SIT continues to investigate the unverified claims, and no identity of an alleged perpetrator has been confirmed. Both the university and Punjab Police maintain that the rumors are fabricated, while students and some political commentators continue to demand transparent answers. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether further administrative or legal actions are taken.
