A violent protest broke out at Punjab College in Lahore’s Gulberg area on Monday after allegations surfaced that a security guard raped a first-year female student. Students began protesting, clashing with the college’s security personnel, who attempted to lock down classrooms and gates. In response, students damaged property and CCTV cameras and set fire to some college assets. Police were called in to control the situation and evict students from the premises.
As protests continued, Lahore police, including anti-riot forces, were deployed to manage the unrest. Officers used baton charges to disperse the demonstrators, which resulted in injuries to 10 students and four police officials.
The protests soon spread to other Punjab College campuses in Muslim Town and Johar Town, with demonstrators demanding justice for the victim. Due to the escalating situation, Lahore police closed Jail Road to traffic. Protesters also gathered outside the Hafeez Centre in the Gulberg area.
Following the protests, the Punjab government suspended the registration of Punjab College for Women at Block-E-I, Gulberg-III, Lahore, until further notice. The Directorate of Public Instruction (Colleges) formally suspended the registration certificate.
The protests began after police arrested a security guard who was accused of involvement in the alleged rape. The suspect had initially fled but was captured by a special police team formed by DIG Operations Faisal Kamran.
Punjab College Denies Allegations
In a statement released on Monday, Punjab Group of Colleges denied the allegations of rape. The college claimed that after a thorough investigation by law enforcement, no evidence was found to support the claim, and no student, parent, or guardian had filed a complaint.
The college assured us they would remain transparent and cooperate with authorities to ensure a fair investigation. They urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, stating that it could cause confusion and unnecessary fear.
The college emphasized that student safety is their top priority, and they have strict security protocols in place that are regularly updated to maintain a secure campus environment.
Protests at Other Educational Institutions
In a related incident, students from Lahore College for Women University also staged a protest against a staff member who allegedly sexually harassed female students. The protestors chanted slogans against the university administration.
In another unfortunate event, a female student from Punjab University’s International Relations department, originally from Sialkot, tragically committed suicide in her hostel.
