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Punjab universities hit by protests triggered by social media rumours

Students at two major private universities in Punjab staged demonstrations after unverified claims circulated on social media. Authorities have launched investigations into the incidents at Chitkara University and Lovely Professional University.

LSN India · 3 October 2026

Punjab universities hit by protests triggered by social media rumours

Unverified social media posts sparked student protests at two prominent private educational institutions in Punjab, prompting police intervention and formal investigations.

The incidents unfolded at Chitkara University and Lovely Professional University (LPU), where students gathered to voice concerns based on allegations that had gained traction online. The exact nature of the rumours and their specific claims remain subjects of active police scrutiny as authorities work to separate fact from misinformation.

Police departments in the respective districts launched probes to investigate the incidents, focusing on how the social media narratives spread and whether they contained any factual basis. Officials are also examining the circumstances that led to student mobilisation and any potential role played by coordination online.

The protests underscore growing concerns about the rapid spread of unverified information through social media platforms and its capacity to trigger real-world reactions, particularly in educational settings where student populations are digitally connected. University administrations have been advised to strengthen communication channels with students to counter misinformation effectively.

Authorities have urged students and the public to exercise caution regarding unverified claims on social media and to report suspected misinformation through official channels rather than participating in potentially disruptive demonstrations.