Protests erupt following alleged rape of student in Punjab College Lahore

LAHORE: On Monday, students from the Punjab Group of Colleges (PGC) in Lahore staged a violent protest both on and off campus following allegations that a security guard and van driver raped a first-year girl the previous day.

Students from several other universities joined the demonstration outside Campus 10, demanding justice for the alleged victim and accountability from the college administration regarding its handling of the incident.

During the unrest, several students sustained injuries, with one being critically hurt. The seriously injured student was taken to Services Hospital on Jail Road by Rescue 1122, where emergency responders were already present to assist.

The protests later spread to Muslim Town as students expressed frustration over what they perceived as attempts by the college administration and police to suppress their actions. Protesters called for justice and transparency in the investigation.

While police announced they were looking into the assault claims and sought to negotiate with the protesting students, many remained skeptical, accusing the administration of attempting to cover up the situation.

Reports indicate that a security guard named Aun and a van driver allegedly assaulted a first-year student in the basement of Punjab Group of Colleges Campus 10. The incident occurred during a break when the student accidentally became locked in. A male teacher ultimately heard her cries for help and intervened.

After the incident, the accused guard fled the scene. The victim was subsequently hospitalized and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).

Concerns about campus safety intensified as it emerged that the guard had a history of violent behavior toward female employees. Allegations suggest that college officials were attempting to silence students, prioritizing the institution’s reputation over the safety of its community.

Armed with banners, students vowed to continue protesting until justice was served. Reports indicate a large turnout outside Campus 10, with some students reportedly locked inside by the administration.

The demonstrations drew participants from PGC and other educational institutions, united in their call for justice and accountability. The administration faced accusations of prioritizing image over student safety and transparency.

Following the viral coverage of the incident on social media, the accused security guard was arrested, revealing a troubling history of misconduct.

Lahore police reported that a written First Information Report (FIR) had not yet been filed, as the victim’s family had not submitted an official complaint.

In response to the recent backlash and demonstrations, the Punjab government has decided to suspend the registration of Punjab College for Women, located at 43 & 43-A, Block-E-I, Gulberg-III, Lahore, until further notice.