Lahore: The University of the Punjab announced an unexpected closure on Friday, October 10, 2025, following government directives amid heightened security concerns related to a rally organized by a religious political party.
According to an official notice issued by the university’s registrar, all academic and administrative activities were suspended from 11:00 am onward. The decision was made as a precautionary measure after security agencies warned of potential unrest in the provincial capital.
Security across Punjab has been significantly tightened, with several routes to the Lahore–Islamabad Motorway sealed. The move follows overnight clashes between police and the party’s supporters after law enforcement attempted to arrest the group’s leader during a raid on its headquarters.
The operation led to violent confrontations, as protesters reportedly attacked police officers with stones and iron rods, injuring at least three policemen. Authorities responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation.
Earlier, the religious party had announced plans to hold a large anti-Israel protest outside the US Embassy in Islamabad on Friday. The announcement prompted authorities to increase security measures throughout Punjab and advise educational institutions to suspend operations temporarily.
The university will remain closed until further notice, with updates expected once the security situation stabilizes.
