Protests Erupt Across Pakistan Over Rape of College Student, Demanding Justice

Post by : Omar Nasser

Photo : AFP

Protests erupted across Pakistan in response to the alleged rape of a college student, sparking widespread demonstrations calling for justice. The situation escalated into violence, particularly in Lahore and Rawalpindi, leading to significant damage and confrontations between protesters and law enforcement.

The unrest was ignited by a disturbing incident involving a female student at Punjab Group of Colleges (PGC) in Lahore. Videos circulated on social media showing thousands of students participating in impromptu protests in Rawalpindi on Thursday, expressing outrage over the alleged crime. Reports indicate that over 200 individuals have been arrested in connection with the violence that unfolded during these demonstrations.

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In Lahore, students congregated at Punjab College's Campus 11, where protests quickly turned destructive. Demonstrators set fires in the parking area, smashed windows, and vandalized property. Some protesters armed with iron rods and clubs clashed with security personnel, demanding accountability from college officials accused of concealing details of the assault. Additional protests erupted on Burki Road, where students blocked traffic, further emphasizing their demand for transparency and justice.

Various student organizations, including the Islami Jamiat Talaba (IJT), Red Workers Front, and Progressive Students Collective, joined forces with the protesters to amplify their message. 

The situation grew increasingly volatile in the Gujrat district, where a security guard was killed amidst the chaos. Clashes erupted at the boys' campus of PGC, resulting in injuries to several demonstrators. Media reports indicated that a group of protesters, comprising both local and outside students, initially targeted the girls' campus on Rehman Shaheed Road, causing considerable destruction.

Other towns in the Gujrat district, such as Lalamusa, Kharian, and Jalalpur Jattan, also witnessed violent protests. Demonstrators vandalized PGC campuses, leading to significant losses of property and theft of valuables.

In response to the chaos, police have filed cases against over 250 individuals, with 45 suspects identified in connection with the vandalism and theft, estimated to amount to around Rs15 million. In Kharian, law enforcement has registered charges against 200 individuals, including 46 identified suspects, for their role in the assault on the local campus, according to statements from the college principal.

The protests reflect a growing frustration among students and citizens regarding issues of safety and justice in Pakistan, highlighting the urgent need for action to address violence against women and ensure accountability within educational institutions.

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