Jalandhar, September 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Lovely Professional University (LPU) on Monday blamed the entry of outsiders for the violence on its campus near Jalandhar, where protests, vandalism and arson were reported amid unrest among students.
The university said it was taking steps to strengthen security and maintain peace on the campus following the incidents.
The university’s statement came amid allegations by students that outsiders were involved in vandalism and arson during the unrest. However, the alleged involvement of outsiders and the circumstances leading to the violence remain subject to investigation.
Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav visited the university amid tension following two days of violent student protests. His visit came after Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann directed him to assess the situation following incidents of violence, vandalism and the setting on fire of three police vehicles during the protests.
DGP Yadav said the police had exercised restraint while dealing with the protesting students and used minimum force. He warned, however, that those involved in arson, vandalism and other unlawful activities would face action.
He said the police would conduct a scientific investigation into the incidents and that no one would be spared if found involved, irrespective of their position.
The protests erupted following rumours on social media about the alleged sexual assault of a female student by an outsider on the university campus. The university has denied the allegations, describing them as fabricated rumours.
The students’ demands include identifying and arresting the accused, investigating previous cases of alleged sexual assault and suicides on campus, and seeking the resignation of the warden of the hostel where the alleged incident took place. They have also demanded that LPU Chancellor and BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal directly address the protesters.
Police are examining CCTV footage and other evidence as part of the investigation. The alleged victim had not been identified so far.
The university has suspended classes for 10 days starting September 28, while mid-term examinations have also been postponed.
In a statement, the LPU management said students from across India and around 50 countries study at the university, adding that safeguarding their trust, safety, dignity and well-being remained its top priority.
“Anti-social elements exploited heightened emotions, causing disruption and damage to university property; such conduct has no place in the LPU community,” the university said, adding that appropriate legal action would be taken against the alleged outside infiltrators.
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