False Rumors of Missing Students and Ghosts Spark Violent Overnight Protest at Punjab University

Times of India•Published: Sep 26, 2026 11:27 PM IST

Students at a private university in Rajpura, Punjab, engaged in a massive overnight protest following unfounded rumors regarding missing female students and supernatural occurrences. The unrest escalated into physical clashes with law enforcement, resulting in the vandalism of police vehicles and damage to campus property.

Police Confirmation: Authorities officially confirmed that no students are missing and that all reports regarding disappearances were entirely false.
Protest Escalation: The situation turned violent as demonstrators clashed with police officers and caused significant damage to both campus facilities and police vehicles.
Rumor Origins: Investigators are currently working to identify the source of the misinformation, which reportedly began as a prank involving ghost stories and a fabricated suicide.

The Context & Background

This incident highlights the rapid spread of misinformation within campus environments and the potential for social media-fueled panic. Authorities are now focusing on maintaining order and investigating the individuals responsible for inciting the unrest.

Why it matters:This event underscores the dangerous real-world consequences of viral misinformation and digital rumors. It serves as a stark reminder of how quickly unverified claims can lead to public disorder, property damage, and unnecessary strain on local law enforcement resources.

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