Ten security guards at Punjab University were injured in a violent clash with student groups on campus, according to university officials.
The students attacked the guards with glass bottles, stones, and sticks during a heated altercation, the university spokesperson confirmed.
The incident occurred after a student made a highly provocative speech, despite prior assurances from student organizations that no inflammatory remarks would be made.
“The students had agreed to adhere to the rules regarding their speeches, but one student gave an inflammatory speech, which led to the conflict,” said the spokesperson.
Security officers reported the speech to the head of the student organization, and when guards attempted to sideline the student, a group of students launched the attack. The guards were pelted with stones and bottles from a nearby canteen, leaving several with head injuries. The guards were forced to act in self-defense, the spokesperson added.
Punjab University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Muhammad Ali condemned the attack and ordered strict action against those involved. "We will ensure the best treatment for the injured security guards, and the perpetrators will face disciplinary action based on the available video evidence," said Dr. Ali.
The university has launched an investigation into the incident, with concerns that certain elements are attempting to disrupt the peaceful environment of the campus.