Rumour of two missing students triggers protest at Chitkara University

The Police probe claim of two missing students at Chitkara University

Patiala, September 26

A protest broke out at Chitkara University in Patiala late on Friday night following rumours on social media that two female students were missing, prompting police to reach the campus and take a complaint from students.

A large number of students gathered on the campus seeking clarification from the university administration over the alleged disappearance. The situation escalated into an argument between some students and police personnel who arrived at the spot.

Banur DSP Sukhdev Singh said the police had received a complaint from the students and would verify the claims. He said the students had not provided any confirmed information about the disappearance so far.

The police will examine the complaint and relevant records to ascertain whether any student has actually gone missing, the DSP said. Further action will be taken according to law if the disappearance is confirmed, he added.

During the protest, students also raised questions about ambulances moving on campus and alleged hearing noises from a hostel at night. They demanded that the university examine CCTV footage to establish what had happened. Station House Officer Gursevak Singh and university Registrar Colonel Rakesh Sharma spoke to the protesting students.

The registrar told the students that reports circulating on social media about the deaths of two female students on the campus were false and described them as rumours. The Police also appealed to parents and students not to rely on unverified information circulating on social media.

The Police said they would examine the students’ complaint and establish the facts before taking further action. The situation on the campus was reported to be calm.