LSR Suspends Classes After Gang Rape Fear
Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR) in Delhi suspended physical classes after a police encounter involving an accused in the Astha Kunj Park gang-rape case took place only about 50 metres from the college’s back gate. The incident increased concerns among students and staff about safety around the campus.
The encounter took place near D.M. Office Road in Amar Colony during the police operation to arrest Asif, one of three men accused of allegedly gang-raping a 17-year-old girl at Astha Kunj Park. Police said the accused had allegedly posed as police officers before approaching the girl and her male friend.
According to police, Asif fired three rounds when officers attempted to intercept him. One bullet struck the bulletproof jacket of head constable Rajesh. Police said the officer then fired two rounds in response, with one bullet hitting Asif in the right leg. He was subsequently arrested and taken for medical treatment.
The close proximity of the gunfire to the college caused anxiety among students, particularly because the encounter happened soon after the alleged sexual assault in the nearby park. LSR asked students, faculty and staff not to gather near the back gate and sought increased police patrolling around the campus and nearby streets.
The LSR administration suspended classes from Tuesday afternoon and shifted classes online for Wednesday. College authorities said the safety and well-being of students were a priority and that faculty mentors and counsellors would remain available to provide support.
The incident has also affected students living in hostels and paying guest accommodations around the college and Astha Kunj Park. Some students have expressed concerns about travelling alone between their accommodation, metro stations and the college, with some choosing to travel in groups.
The LSR Students’ Union also held an emergency meeting to discuss student safety and security arrangements around the campus. Students raised concerns about the college perimeter and called for stronger security measures and greater police presence in the surrounding area.
The alleged gang-rape case itself remains under investigation. Delhi Police said all three accused — Asif, Hemant and Mukesh — were arrested following the investigation. The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The incident has renewed concerns among students about safety in areas surrounding educational institutions. LSR’s decision to move classes online and seek additional police patrols reflects the immediate precautions taken by the college following the incidents near its campus.