LAHORE: The Punjab University security guards and Islami Jamiat Tulba (IJT) activists clashed over holding a grand Iftar dinner on the new campus without permission on Thursday.

Reports said the IJT activists were entering the university with eatables when the guards stopped them at Gate No 4. The activists attacked the guards who had to step back and call the police.

A PU spokesperson said the IJT activists did not seek permission from the administration for the event and hence no political activity can be allowed under the guise of Iftar.

He said in view of the country’s situation, the university administration can’t give any permission to any such programme.

He said the IJT broke open the lock of the university gate to bring catering material inside.

He said the IJT ‘goons’ carrying sticks also injured the security guard at the gate.

He said the university administration informed the police about the incident.

The spokesperson said disciplinary action will be taken against the students involved in the incident.

He said the situation in Punjab University remained peaceful and all the gates were open during class timings except hostel gate and Maulana Shaukat Ali road gate which were closed for a few minutes due to security situation.

PU IJT spokesperson Fasihur Rehman said the administration was creating problems to hold the Iftar dinner on the campus.

He said the students were subjected to violence by police and security guards at Gate No 4 while transporting items for the Iftar dinner.

He demanded action against the officials involved in violence and an inquiry into the incident.

He also demanded removing restrictions on holding welfare and religious activities on the campus.

Published in Dawn, March 21st, 2025