Phagwara, September 28, 2026: Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav visited Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara on Monday following violent protests and vandalism on the campus.
The visit came after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann directed the DGP to personally assess the situation at the university and ensure strict action against those found responsible for violence, vandalism and arson.
The situation at LPU escalated on Sunday after students protested over allegations concerning the alleged sexual assault of a female student on the university campus. The university has denied the allegations and described them as unverified and fabricated claims.
DGP Gaurav Yadav Visits LPU
During his visit, DGP Gaurav Yadav reviewed the security situation on the campus and interacted with officials regarding the developments.
The Punjab Police chief said that students have grievances that need to be heard and assured that genuine concerns would be addressed. At the same time, he made it clear that legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible for violence, vandalism or other unlawful activities.
Police authorities have maintained that the investigation into the allegations will be conducted on the basis of evidence. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to investigate the matter.
Police Probe Into Allegations Underway
Following complaints from students, police registered a case against an unidentified person and initiated an investigation.
Officials said the investigation will examine available evidence, including CCTV footage, forensic material and other relevant information. The police have also indicated that student representatives will be involved in the investigation process.
The university, meanwhile, has maintained that it was not aware of any such incident and has stated that it will cooperate with the police investigation.
Protest Turns Violent
The student protest intensified on Sunday, with students blocking National Highway-44 outside the university for several hours.
The situation later turned violent, with police reporting stone-pelting and damage to vehicles and property. Some vehicles were reportedly set on fire, while several police personnel were injured during the clashes.
A large police force was subsequently deployed around and inside the university campus. Senior police officials also conducted a flag march as authorities worked to bring the situation under control.
Traffic movement on NH-44 has since been restored and officials said the situation was peaceful on Monday.
LPU Suspends Classes for 10 Days
Amid the unrest, Lovely Professional University has suspended regular classes for 10 days from September 28.
The university has also postponed its mid-term examinations until further notice.
Students who wish to return to their hometowns have been allowed to do so after consulting their parents or guardians. Students who remain on campus have been advised to stay inside their hostels or places of residence and avoid unnecessary movement.
Students Raise Multiple Demands
During the protest, students raised several concerns related to campus and hostel security.
Their demands included stronger security arrangements in girls’ hostels, greater accountability of hostel officials and assurances that students participating in the protest would not face reprisals.
Students also sought clarification and action regarding the allegations that triggered the protest.
Police and university authorities have said that the concerns raised by students will be examined while the investigation continues.
Security Tightened Around Campus
Security arrangements have been strengthened around LPU following Sunday’s violence. A large police deployment remains in place to maintain law and order and prevent any further escalation.
Authorities have appealed for peace and urged students and the public not to circulate unverified information on social media.
The police investigation into the allegations and the violence on campus is continuing. Action will be taken according to law against those found responsible after the investigation establishes the facts.
