Indian University Suspends Classes and Exams Following Violent Protests Over Alleged Rape

Lovely Professional University in Phagwara, Punjab, has suspended classes for 10 days and postponed its midterm examinations following violent student protests on campus last week. The demonstrations erupted over an alleged rape on campus, a claim that university officials have strongly denied.

In an official statement, the university advised students that they may return to their hometowns during this 10-day period or remain inside their hostels and residences for safety. The unrest began after social media posts claimed a female student was raped on campus and subsequently died by suicide. Police stated they are investigating the incident, though the identity of the student has not yet been established, according to India Today.

The protests escalated significantly when demonstrators clashed with police, leading to incidents of vandalism, property damage, and blocked highways. University registrar Monica Gulati dismissed the allegations as completely false, stating they were part of a deliberate attempt to damage the institution's reputation. Although three students initially appeared in a video supporting the registrar's denial, a later video emerged featuring the same students claiming they had been instructed on what to say.

This campus unrest coincides with broader national concerns regarding sexual violence, following recent comments from the Supreme Court regarding law enforcement failures in handling rape cases. Activists note that sexual violence remains a pervasive issue across India, with thousands of cases reported annually despite significant underreporting due to social stigma.