Punjab Province Closes Schools Amid Student Protests Over Alleged Campus Rape
Authorities in Pakistan's Punjab province shut down educational institutions following unrest sparked by reports of an unverified rape incident.
- All schools and universities in Punjab, affecting approximately 26 million students, were closed for two days to manage the escalating protests.
- The unrest began after social media reports alleged a rape at a Lahore college, though authorities claim no victim has come forward and the incident is unverified.
- Protests have spread to multiple cities, including Lahore and Rawalpindi, with clashes between students and police resulting in hundreds of arrests.
- Police in Rawalpindi reported 380 arrests related to vandalism and arson, with efforts underway to identify participants through social media.
- The protests reflect broader concerns about women's safety on campuses and a lack of trust in authorities, as students demand a transparent investigation.