ASP Shehrbano Naqvi terms Lahore female student rape case "misinformation"

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Defence Shehrbano Naqvi called for calm and vigilance amid recent protests sparked by alleged misinformation on social media regarding the rape of a female student at Punjab College in Lahore.

"Misinformation was spread regarding a private college student," Naqvi said in a video message uploaded to Punjab Police's official X account.

"We request all parents, students, and school administrations to lodge complaints with the police if any untoward incidents occur. Your grievances will be resolved. Please don't take the law and order situation into your hands."

Naqvi also quoted two Ayats from the Holy Quran emphasising verification of news and promoting peace.

"We know you students have a bright future... Your police are here to protect you. Let us verify facts; don't believe misinformation."

قرآن پاک میں ارشاد باری تعالیٰ ہے کہ "اے ایمان والو! اگر کوئی فاسق تمہاے پاس کوئی سی خبر لائے تو اس کی تحقیق کیا کرو، کہیں کسی قوم پر بے خبری سے نہ جا پڑو پھر اپنے کیے پر پشیمان ہونے لگو"
لاہور میں سوشل میڈیا پر ایک نجی تعلیمی ادارے کے حوالے سے غیر مصدقہ واقعہ کو بنیاد بنا کر… pic.twitter.com/HzRlWdqOtA

— Punjab Police Official (@OfficialDPRPP) October 14, 2024

The police officer assured students that female police officers are available to assist with gender-related issues.

In another video, the family members of the victim girl wearing masks, denied the claims of rape, expressing shock over the news.

"Our daughter slipped at home, injured her back, and is undergoing treatment at a hospital," the uncle of the girl said.

A day earlier, students of the educational institute blocked Canal Road and Muslim Town Mor to protest against the alleged sexual assault.

Later, police used baton-charge to disperse the protesters, which injured several students.