Tensions flared at a Karachi university on Wednesday after violent clashes between two student groups. Demonstrators later blocked Abul Hassan Ispahani Road, burning tyres and accusing police of delaying action against their rivals.
Violence on Campus
The unrest began earlier in the day when nearly two dozen students armed with sticks attacked a rival group’s camp near the Arts Lobby. Eyewitnesses reported that motorcycles parked outside the administration building were also set on fire, leaving at least one vehicle destroyed.
A student named Faheem suffered serious head and leg injuries during the attack. Witnesses said he fled into the Arts Lobby, where staff provided shelter. He was later escorted to the Vice Chancellor’s Secretariat. Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Iraqi personally took him to the campus clinic for treatment.
Rising Tensions
Security officials confirmed that tensions between the two groups had escalated the previous day. Campus rangers had tried to mediate a truce, but violence broke out again. By afternoon, police were deployed across the university grounds to prevent further clashes.
Outside the local police station, angry students staged a protest. They demanded the immediate registration of a case and the arrest of the named suspects. Protesters warned they would continue demonstrations if their demands were ignored.
Police Response
Mubina Town Station House Officer (SHO) Chaudhry Nawaz said police were preparing to register a case. He added that negotiations were underway with student representatives to disperse the crowd peacefully.
The situation remained tense by evening, with authorities urging both groups to avoid further escalation.
