At least 27 people were injured in Lahore during clashes between students, college security, and the police amid a protest over the alleged on-campus rape of a student, rescue officials reported on Monday.
The incident came to light after a security guard was arrested, following viral social media posts about the alleged rape. According to the police, the suspect has been taken into custody, and an investigation is ongoing, although no official First Information Report (FIR) has been filed as the victim’s family has not come forward yet.
Angry students, mobilized through social media, protested outside various colleges in Lahore. A confrontation between protesters and the security team of a college escalated, leading to clashes with the police. Rescue 1122 reported that 27 people were injured during the clash, with one student in serious condition being transferred to Services Hospital Lahore.
Rights group Aurat March condemned the authorities’ handling of the situation and demanded action from the Punjab government.
During a press conference, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Faisal Kamran stated that the police are working to locate the victim and her family. So far, claims of the alleged incident circulating on social media have not been verified. The police are reviewing CCTV footage and hospital records but have not yet confirmed the incident.
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Students had reportedly demanded the college principal be handed over to them, prompting police intervention. DIG Kamran also mentioned that several police personnel were injured by stone-throwing students during the protest. He reassured that the police are communicating with students and the college administration and that the investigation is being monitored closely.
Punjab’s Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat visited the college and assured students that justice would be served. He also stated that action would be taken if allegations regarding the deletion of evidence were proven. Hayat emphasized that the students would not face removal from the college, despite alleged threats from the administration.
In response to the situation, the Punjab government suspended the registration of the college, pending further investigation. However, a statement from the Punjab Group of Colleges denied the occurrence of any rape, citing an impartial investigation by law enforcement. The college also criticized false claims circulating online and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari said that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz was being regularly updated on the situation. Bokhari urged anyone with credible information to share it with the authorities. She also expressed concern over the growing trend of sexual violence, pointing out the significant rise in such cases across Punjab.
A 2023 report revealed that cases of violence against women in Punjab have surged, with an alarming number of rape cases reported throughout the year. The report highlights the pressing need to address these issues and improve safety for women in the region.
