Punjab Women’s Commission takes suo motu cognizance of LPU, Chitkara University student safety concerns, seeks report
Ravi Jakhu
Chandigarh, September 28, 2026: The Punjab State Commission for Women has taken suo motu cognizance of recent incidents and student safety concerns reported at Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, and Chitkara University, Rajpura.
The Commission, exercising its powers under Section 12 of the Punjab State Commission for Women Act, 2001, has directed senior civil and police officials in Kapurthala and Patiala districts to conduct inquiries and submit Action Taken Reports by September 30, 2026.
For the LPU incident, the Commission has sought a copy of the FIR, details of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the status of the investigation. It has also asked authorities to provide details of security arrangements at women's hostels, including CCTV surveillance, security personnel and entry and exit monitoring.
The Commission has further directed authorities to ensure the privacy and safety of the student complainant/victim and protect her from any pressure, coercion or threats during the investigation. It has also sought details of action taken in connection with the student protests, clashes and reported damage to property.
Regarding Chitkara University, the Commission has sought details of any police complaints concerning allegations circulating on social media about female students being missing or facing untoward incidents.
The Patiala authorities have also been asked to submit a status report verifying the claims circulating online and detail the preventive measures taken by the university and authorities to address students' safety concerns.
The Commission said it remains committed to protecting the dignity, rights and safety of women and girls in educational institutions. The Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police concerned have been directed to submit their reports to the Commission's chairperson by September 30.