Phagwara: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed a high-level investigation into the violence at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, following protests that escalated into clashes, property damage and vehicles being set on fire. Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav, a 1992-batch IPS officer of the Punjab cadre, visited the campus on September 28 to review the law-and-order situation and the ongoing response.
The unrest followed unverified allegations circulating around the campus. Police have registered a case and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the allegations and the events surrounding the violence.
DGP Gaurav Yadav Reviews LPU Security Situation
DGP Gaurav Yadav, accompanied by Special DGP Praveen Sinha, inspected the university campus and reviewed the security arrangements.
Yadav said the Chief Minister had directed Punjab Police to conduct a comprehensive investigation and identify those responsible for any wrongdoing. He also said that student safety remains a priority and that action would be taken according to law against those found responsible.
The DGP said the situation had been brought under control and that efforts were underway to restore normalcy on the campus.
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LPU Protests Turned Violent
The protests at LPU escalated on Sunday, with reports of vandalism, arson and clashes between protesters and police. Vehicles were damaged and some were set on fire, while the Jalandhar-Phagwara National Highway was also blocked during the unrest.
The university has suspended regular classes for 10 days from September 28 and postponed its mid-term examinations until further notice.
Police Begin Investigation Into Violence
Punjab Police have begun collecting evidence as part of the investigation into the incident. Investigators are examining available video footage and recording statements to establish the sequence of events.
A Special Investigation Team has been constituted to investigate the allegations and related developments. Reports said the FIR was initially registered against an unknown person, while investigators continued to examine evidence.
The investigation is expected to determine the circumstances that led to the unrest and establish responsibility for any offences.
DGP Addresses Concerns Over Police Action
The police response during the protests, including the use of lathi-charge to clear the situation, has also come under discussion.
According to the DGP, police action was taken in the circumstances prevailing at the time to bring the situation under control and prevent further escalation. The broader investigation will examine the sequence of events and actions taken during the unrest.
Security Strengthened Around University Campus
Security has been strengthened at and around the LPU campus following the violence. Police and administrative officials are monitoring the situation as efforts continue to restore normalcy.
Authorities have also emphasised that students’ concerns will be addressed through appropriate channels while the investigation proceeds.
The Punjab government’s direction for a detailed probe places the focus on establishing the facts surrounding the violence and taking action against anyone found responsible under applicable law.
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