LPU Founder Ashok Mittal Addresses Campus Violence and Conspiracy
The recent violent protests and vandalism at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Phagwara, Punjab, have drawn sharp reactions from the university's founder and BJP Member of Parliament, Ashok Mittal. Breaking his silence on the turmoil, Mittal termed the unrest a carefully orchestrated conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the state and tarnishing the institution's reputation through fabricated online narratives.
Speaking to the media, Mittal emphasized that the inflammatory posts circulated on social media platforms, particularly Reddit, bore no relation to reality. Law enforcement agencies and institutional inquiries have found zero evidence supporting the initial allegations of assault that triggered the protests. Despite this, malicious actors deliberately exploited the situation to stoke anger among students.
Social Media Rumors and Community Harmony
The controversy initially erupted following unverified claims on digital platforms regarding an alleged incident inside the girls' hostel. These misleading posts quickly incited massive student gatherings demanding accountability and enhanced security. However, Chancellor Mittal pointed out a much darker underlying motive behind the escalation.
"This is not merely student unrest; it is a calculated attempt to spread chaos in Punjab and create a wedge between the Hindu and Sikh communities, while also demoralizing our national security symbols." — Ashok Mittal, Chancellor & MP
He strongly condemned the vandalism of the retired MiG-23 fighter jet, a gift from the Indian Air Force displayed near the university gate, where some protestors were seen celebrating atop the national military heritage symbol.
Police Action and Ongoing Investigation
In response to the violence, Punjab Police have intensified their crackdown, arresting three individuals identified as Gagan, James Dahija, and Abhi based on digital evidence and video footage. While James Dahija is an LPU student, Gagan works as a pizza delivery agent. The suspects have been placed on a three-day police remand for further interrogation.
Authorities have registered four separate FIRs covering various offenses, including highway blockades, arson, destruction of private and public property, and attacking police personnel. A special seven-member investigative team has been formed to probe the conspiracy from all angles and ensure accountability for the widespread destruction.
