PU stabbing incident raises security concerns at varsity

The student’s death after the scuffle on the South Campus of the PU in Sector 25 has raised serious security concerns amid security staff “shortage”.

The university has only 240 security personnel to secure nearly 6,000 students and two campuses spread on approximately 550 acres. Sources claimed the staff strength was short by 160, considering the staff hiring approved previously.

“Since 2008, many new buildings have come up and the number of events taking place on the campus doubled. The security staff is overburdened. It’s really sad that this incident happened and everyone is in a state of shock. This is the time to take some strict action to revamp the campus security,” said an official, maintaining that the staff is working for 15 to 16 hours and even more during such events.

Recently, the university had decided to take No Objection Certificate (NOC) before hosting any major events including ‘star nights’. The same routine was followed for yesterday’s event. However, the university’s internal security as well as the UT police deployed on the campus failed to prevent entry of armed assailants on the campus.

While the four students were being stabbed by the assailants, onlookers were shooting videos. When the attackers fled the scene, the onlookers started helping the victims.

No further events

Many student and political groups staged a protest against the authorities at the Student Centre. They removed the nameplate of the DSW from his office and also smashed windowpanes. The DWS was already facing criticism for allegedly not allowing star nights and making the NOC mandatory for hosting such events. By evening, the university cancelled all their programmes and a Notice of Condolence was issued by the DSW. “As a mark of respect, all cultural functions, events, and activities at the university have been cancelled until further notice. However, academic programmes, events and activities will continue as per the previous schedule,” read the statement.

“This is an immense loss to the Panjab University community. Our thoughts and prayers are with Aditya’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,” said Vice-Chancellor Prof Renu Vig.