25-04-2025
Officials debunk viral video of ‘scuffle' at Punjab's Lalru college, reassure students
'We urge students and the general public not to circulate unverified videos or make speculative statements,' said Mohali SP (Headquarters) Ramandeep Singh, addressing concerns after a video from Universal College in Lalru went viral.
'There was no communal or regional angle involved. It was a minor scuffle between students during a sports match, and the matter was resolved amicably on the spot.'
To reassure Kashmiri students in Punjab, SP (PBI) Deepika Singh and DSP Kharar Karan Singh Sandhu visited Rayat Bahra University under the direction of SSP Mohali, Deepak Pareek.
The officers assured students of their safety and urged them to contact the 112 helpline for immediate assistance.
In an official statement, SSP Mohali emphasized the administration's commitment to student welfare. 'We have reached out to college administrations and students to assure them of their security. PCR vehicles have been stationed around campuses and in areas with private PGs and hostels. Our officers have personally met students to provide support. Dedicated WhatsApp groups have been created for the quick reporting of incidents, along with the 112 helpline, which is active 24×7. No one will be allowed to take the law into their hands,' the press note stated.
Meanwhile, the video from Universal Group of Institutions in Dera Bassi, which went viral and fueled speculation linking the altercation to recent terror attacks on tourists in Kashmir, has been officially debunked.
Authorities confirmed it was merely a brief misunderstanding during a cricket game and was not related to any communal or political issue.
According to officials, the incident occurred on Wednesday evening during a friendly match at the Universal College hostel campus in Lalru.
A verbal disagreement between students, including some from Kashmir, escalated into a short-lived physical altercation. The situation was quickly brought under control, and all students involved later reconciled.
To address public concern and curb misinformation, a joint video statement was issued by the college administration, SP Headquarters Ramandeep Singh, and the students involved.
In the statement, they clarified that the scuffle had no communal or political motivation and was simply a misunderstanding among peers.
Nasir Khuehami, national convener of the J&K Students Association, also appealed for calm. 'We have advised students to stay composed and avoid sharing or reacting to unverified content,' he said.
He urged Kashmiri students to refrain from engaging in online debates that might fuel tension or hurt sentiments.
