Student dies in alleged shooting at Pakistan university

A Punjab University (PU) student was allegedly shot and killed on campus, prompting protests by Islami Jamiat-e-Talaba (IJT) members that paralyzed traffic near Lahore’s Barkat Market and surrounding roads.

The victim, identified as Rana Ammar Akhtar, 22, reportedly sustained three bullet wounds while at the PC Canteen. "He came to eat at the canteen but was shot and later succumbed to his injuries at Sheikh Zayed Hospital," IJT Secretary of Information Muhammad Tayyab Chohan told Nukta.

Hospital officials confirmed the young man was hit in the chest, stomach, and leg. "We tried our best to save him, but he passed away during surgery," doctors said.

Before blocking the main canal road, IJT students protested outside the vice chancellor’s office, demanding accountability for the incident.

In a press conference later in the day, PU administration strongly denied any shooting occurred on campus. "We thoroughly inspected the areas mentioned and reviewed CCTV footage. No evidence of gunfire or eyewitness accounts were found," university officials said.

The administration added that no bullet shells, blood stains, or witnesses to the alleged shooting were located.

They accused IJT of politicizing the incident, stating, "The organization is spreading baseless allegations. We will not be blackmailed by such tactics and request everyone not to believe hearsay."

The university also claimed that IJT members attacked the administration block and caused damage to campus property, including breaking windows and vandalizing canteen facilities.

Despite the administration's denials, IJT has maintained its position, insisting Ammar was shot on campus. Lahore police confirmed they are investigating the incident.