Chaos unfolded at I.K. Gujral Punjab Technical University (IKGPTU) today as students staged a strong protest outside the main campus, demanding immediate action against the Vice Chancellor (VC) and the Dean of Student Welfare. The demonstration, which continued late into the night, was sparked by allegations of misbehavior and discriminatory remarks by the Dean when students sought permission for a cultural event.
In their complaint, a copy of which is in possession of TrueScoop, reveals that the issue arose when they (students) approached the Dean to discuss venue changes for their Navratri celebration, popularly known as “Dandiya Night.” Instead of granting permission, the Dean allegedly made derogatory comments. According to the letter, he remarked, “Why do girls want to dance with boys? I can lock up boys and allow only girls to dance.” He further questioned, “Who will take responsibility for this event?” and went on to state, “Itna karna hai toh aap hotel book kar lo (If you want to do this, then book a hotel).” The Dean also allegedly said that even the Vice Chancellor would not act on the matter.
Students described these remarks as “vulgar, unprofessional and an insult to every girl student.” They accused the Dean of exhibiting a discriminatory mindset and said such conduct was unbecoming of an academic leader responsible for student welfare. The letter underscored that the incident had shaken female students’ sense of safety and dignity on campus.
In their written complaint, the students demanded:
1-Immediate removal of the Dean of Student Welfare from his post for misconduct.
2-Equal treatment and uniform rules for both boys and girls in cultural events, including identical event closing times.
3-A supportive cultural environment with proper security arrangements to ensure that female students feel safe on campus.
4-A written assurance from the Vice Chancellor, with action details shared through the university’s official announcement channels by 3:00pm today.
The students also stated they would not accept “verbal assurances or informal promises” and insisted that any action taken be communicated in writing.
As the administration did not immediately respond to their demands, a large group of students gathered outside the university gate, raising slogans and pressing for accountability. Police personnel were deployed at the protest site to maintain order as tensions escalated. By 9:30 PM, the protest was still ongoing.
Several students accused the Vice Chancellor of ignoring the matter, saying that his inaction had forced them to take to the streets. They alleged that the administration was trying to restrict their cultural event by imposing early closing hours while failing to address their genuine safety and equality concerns.
The protestors said this was not merely about one event but about respect, equity, and a safe campus culture. “We will not tolerate derogatory behavior from those in positions of responsibility. This is about restoring dignity, trust, and fairness within our university,” one of the students said.
As of filing this report, university authorities had not released an official statement on the issue.