Punjab CM Orders Strict Action Over Alleged LPU Rape, Directs DGP to Visit Campus

Bhagwant Mann Orders Strict Action

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on September 28, 2026, directed authorities to take strict action in connection with the unrest at Lovely Professional University in Phagwara.

The Chief Minister also instructed Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav to personally visit the university and assess the situation. The direction came a day after student protests over an alleged sexual assault turned violent on the campus.

The Punjab government said those found responsible for violence, vandalism or other unlawful activities would face action according to law.

DGP Gaurav Yadav Visits LPU

Following the Chief Minister's direction, DGP Gaurav Yadav visited the LPU campus.

Yadav said police had exercised restraint while dealing with the protesting students and had attempted to address their grievances through discussions. At the same time, he said those involved in vandalism would face strict action after examination of CCTV footage and other evidence.

The DGP also said an FIR had been registered in connection with the alleged sexual assault and that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) would conduct a detailed investigation.

Investigation Underway Into Alleged Sexual Assault

The protests began after allegations circulated that a female student had been sexually assaulted on the university campus.

Police have registered a case against an unknown person and formed an SIT. Investigators are examining evidence, including CCTV footage, forensic material and call records, to establish what happened.

Authorities have stressed that the allegation remains under investigation. Police have not confirmed that a rape occurred, and the identity of any accused person has not been established.

LPU Denies Rape Allegation

Lovely Professional University has denied the allegation.

The university administration described the claims as false and fabricated and said they had created confusion among students. Three female students who were reportedly present in the hostel room where the alleged incident was said to have occurred also denied that a rape had taken place, according to reports.

The university's position is separate from the ongoing police investigation, which is intended to establish the facts.

Student Protests Turn Violent

Student protests intensified on Sunday after the allegations surfaced. Students blocked a section of National Highway-44 outside the university, disrupting traffic.

The protest later escalated, with police reporting stone-pelting and attacks on police vehicles. Some objects were also set on fire, and several police personnel were injured, according to officials.

Police subsequently increased security around the university and deployed personnel at the campus gates.

Classes Suspended for 10 Days

LPU has suspended regular classes for 10 days from September 28 in response to the unrest.

The university has also postponed mid-term examinations until further notice. Students who wish to return to their hometowns have been advised to do so in consultation with their parents or guardians.

The university has asked students to remain calm, follow official instructions and avoid unnecessary movement or involvement in activities connected with the unrest.

Heavy Police Deployment at Campus

More than 2,000 police personnel have reportedly been deployed in and around the university to maintain law and order.

Police have also conducted a flag march and increased security at campus gates. By Monday morning, officials said the situation had become peaceful and students were leaving the campus after the suspension of classes.

Authorities have also warned against spreading unverified information while the investigation continues.

What Happens Next?

The SIT investigation will determine the facts surrounding the alleged sexual assault. Police are expected to examine available evidence and statements before taking further legal action.

Separately, authorities are investigating the violence and vandalism that occurred during the student protests. The DGP has said action will be taken against those identified as responsible.

For now, the alleged rape remains an allegation under investigation, while LPU has denied that the incident occurred.

Key Takeaways

• Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann ordered strict action following unrest at LPU.

• He directed DGP Gaurav Yadav to visit the university and assess the situation.

• Police have registered an FIR and formed an SIT to investigate the alleged sexual assault.

• The alleged rape has not been confirmed by authorities.

• LPU has denied the allegation and called the claims false and fabricated.

• Student protests over the allegations turned violent, with reports of stone-pelting and damage to police vehicles.

• More than 2,000 police personnel have been deployed around the campus.

• LPU has suspended regular classes for 10 days and postponed mid-term examinations.