Tensions escalated in Rawalpindi, where students protested over an alleged rape incident at a Lahore college. According to local media, demonstrators clashed with police, throwing stones as authorities tried to disperse the crowd. The students reportedly vandalized hostel rooms and set furniture and other items on fire.
The unrest in Punjab follows accusations of sexual assault on campus, igniting outrage among students and activists. Despite these claims, the college administration and the Punjab government denied any incident, and the alleged victim’s parents also refuted the story, creating confusion and heightened emotions.
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As students continue to demand accountability and justice, they are calling for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations. Authorities, meanwhile, are urging calm as they address the unrest and respond to community demands for campus safety.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz rejected the rape claims, stating they are unfounded. She explained that an investigation revealed the girl was hospitalized due to a fall before the allegations surfaced. The chief minister criticized the protests and accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of using the incident to spread misinformation, especially during the SCO summit. She vowed to take legal action against those spreading falsehoods, claiming the girl was a victim of political manipulation.
On Wednesday, all government and private colleges in Gujrat were closed in response to the protests. A notification from the district commissioner confirmed that educational institutions will remain shut from October 17 to October 19.
