LAHORE: A violent confrontation erupted at a private college in Gulberg, Lahore, after the alleged rape of a first-year female student by a security guard on campus. The incident, which took place during college hours in the basement, triggered widespread anger among the students, leading to protests that quickly escalated into clashes with the police.
The suspect, a college-employed security guard, fled the scene immediately following the alleged assault but was apprehended later by the police in Sialkot. Authorities have confirmed the arrest and stated that an investigation is underway, with more details to be shared as the inquiry progresses.
Outraged by the incident, a large group of students gathered on the college premises, demanding justice and swift action against the suspect.
Eyewitnesses reported that the college administration had locked students inside classrooms and shut the gates, preventing them from leaving to join the protests outside. Frustrated by the administration’s actions, students lashed out, causing damage to the property and clashing with teachers.
The college’s actions also led to the protest growing in size and turning more destructive, with students vandalising property, smashing CCTV cameras, and setting fire to college assets. In an attempt to control the situation, local police, including anti-riot forces, were deployed both inside and outside the campus.
Efforts to negotiate with the protesting students initially failed, leading to physical confrontations between law enforcement and the demonstrators. During the ensuing clashes, 10 students and four police officers sustained injuries. Rescue teams were called in to provide medical assistance to those hurt in the violence, including students, staff, and police personnel.
As the unrest unfolded, concerned parents rushed to the college to retrieve their children.
Meanwhile, authorities continued to work to bring the situation under control at the Gulberg campus. The alleged rape has sparked widespread outrage, with calls for accountability and stricter security protocols at educational institutions across the province.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar visited the college to address the students, assuring them that their demands would be heard.
He urged the students to refrain from further damaging the college and emphasized the importance of resolving the situation peacefully. Investigations into the rape case remain ongoing.
