Victim’s father denies assault claims as Punjab College protests grow: Key updates
A security guard at Punjab College in Lahore’s Gulberg area has been arrested on charges of sexually assaulting a first-year student during college hours, police confirmed on Sunday.
The Punjab College incident allegedly took place in the college’s basement, after which the suspect fled the scene. Law enforcement later apprehended the suspect in Sialkot following multiple raids.
A police spokesperson confirmed the arrest, stating that investigations are ongoing. “All available resources were deployed to capture the suspect,” the spokesperson said, adding that efforts to locate the victim and her family are still underway. The victim, reportedly a resident of Sheikhupura, is enrolled at Punjab College’s Gaddafi Stadium branch on Hali Road.
Following reports of the incident, student protests erupted on the Punjab College campus, demanding accountability from the administration. The demonstrations quickly escalated, leading to clashes between students and security personnel. Several individuals, including police officers, were injured in the confrontation, though officials have assured that none of the injuries are life-threatening.
In response to the unrest, Lahore DIG Operations Faisal Kamran addressed the media, stating that the alleged assault gained widespread attention after circulating on social media.
“The accused security guard has been taken into custody, but the details of the incident remain under investigation,” Kamran said. He further added that police are reviewing CCTV footage from the college and coordinating with the administration and students to uncover more information.
Despite the arrest, authorities have not yet confirmed the details of the assault, and the investigation remains open. Kamran assured the public that the police would continue to communicate with protesters and urged their cooperation in the investigation.
Father’s statement disputes allegations
In a surprising turn of events, the father of the alleged victim has disputed claims that his daughter was assaulted. Speaking to the police, he stated that the ongoing protests were based on misinformation.
“Our daughter is being used as a basis for protests, which have no connection to her,” he said, explaining that his daughter had sustained a back injury at home, leading to her admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
“We have provided the police with her medical reports,” he added, expressing disbelief over the use of his daughter’s name in the protests. “As a father, it is painful to see this misinformation spread about my daughter.”
Police warn against misinformation
ASP Defence Shahrbano Naqvi made a public appeal urging people not to spread unverified news. “We appeal to the public to avoid targeting anyone’s family based on false information,” she stated, adding that if a legitimate incident were to occur, the police would take immediate action.
She emphasized the importance of verified facts before registering any case and warned that misinformation could disrupt public order.
Punjab College responds to allegations
Punjab College has released an official statement in response to the allegations. While the administration has not confirmed the details of the alleged incident, they assured the public that they are cooperating fully with the authorities to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The situation remains tense as investigations continue, with both Punjab College and law enforcement seeking to clarify the facts surrounding the case.
