Violent protests erupt in Pakistan over alleged college rape
Students demand justice; campuses vandalised, Rs15 million in damages
Protests spread across Pakistan following the alleged rape of a college student. The demand for justice escalated into violence in Lahore and Rawalpindi, with reports of vandalism and arson at various public and private institutions.
Videos circulating online showed thousands of students staging an impromptu protest in Rawalpindi against the reported rape of a female student at PGC Lahore. Authorities have arrested over 200 students in connection with the unrest.
In Lahore, students gathered at Punjab College’s Campus 11. They set fires in the parking area, shattered windows, and caused significant damage. Protesters, some armed with iron rods and clubs, stormed the campus. On Burki Road, students blocked traffic, calling for accountability from the college administration for allegedly concealing the incident. Groups like Islami Jamiat Talaba (IJT), Red Workers Front, and Progressive Students Collective supported the demonstrators.
OH' MY GOD: These are raging spear headed Punjab college students protesting against the gang rape of their college girl student by the security guards of their college. The rapists are thither at lose. pic.twitter.com/glWfffsDR5
— ѕнαfιq кнαи off 🇨🇦 (@saknscan) October 14, 2024
In the Gujrat district of Punjab, violence at the PGC boys’ campus led to the death of a security guard and injuries to several protesters. Media reports indicated that a mix of local and outside students initiated a protest rally and attacked the girls’ campus on Rehman Shaheed Road, inflicting considerable damage. Protests also broke out in other towns within the Gujrat district, including Lalamusa, Kharian, and Jalalpur Jattan, where demonstrators damaged PGC campuses and looted valuables.
respect for Pakistani young girls who are protesting against #Pakistan Army in Punjab College #Lahore. an Army officer allegedly r@ped a college girl. Protests have turned violent and as per recent reports one Army personnel is killed by the protesters pic.twitter.com/aTuH6qC0NK
— The Sanghi (@karma2moksha) October 17, 2024
Police have registered cases against more than 250 individuals, with 45 suspects identified for vandalizing PGC properties and stealing valuables estimated at around Rs15 million. Similarly, Kharian Saddar police have booked 200 individuals, including 46 identified suspects, for attacking the Kharian campus.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Daily Guardian: Protests across Pakistan over alleged rape escalated into violence, vandalism, and arrests, highlighting deep concerns about safety and justice for victims amidst societal stigma.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why are there protests in Pakistan?
Protests erupted due to the alleged rape of a college student, demanding justice.
Where have the protests in Pakistan turned violent?
Violence occurred notably in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and the Gujrat district.
Who supported the student protests in Pakistan?
Groups like Islami Jamiat Talaba (IJT), Red Workers Front, and Progressive Students Collective supported the protests.
What damage was caused during the Lahore protests?
Protesters set fires, shattered windows, and caused significant damage at Punjab College’s Campus 11.
How many people have been arrested in connection with the protests?
Authorities have arrested over 200 students related to the unrest.
