Breaking: Gunfire erupts at Punjab University, SOPU President targeted
Babuhshai Bureau
Chandigarh, March 17, 2026. Punjab University (PU) was thrown into panic on Tuesday after an armed attack in the parking area of the Botany Department, where the National President of SOPU (Student Organisation of Punjab University), Jashan Jawanda, narrowly escaped unharmed. The incident has raised serious concerns about campus security and the safety of students.
Shortly after the firing, a post circulated widely on social media claiming responsibility on behalf of the alleged Lawrence gang and SOPU rivals, including Davinder Bambhiha and Gopi Ghanshampuria.
The post stated that the attack was carried out by individuals identified as Goli Doni Ball and Shagunpreet, warning that while Jashan survived, “everyone else may not be so lucky,” directly threatening anyone associating with the Lawrence-SOPU group.
Following the attack, senior officials from the Chandigarh Police and a forensic team rushed to the site. Investigations are ongoing, with CCTV footage from the parking area and surrounding locations being scrutinised.
The university administration has expressed concern over outsiders gaining access to the campus, including weapons, highlighting serious lapses in security.