Panic gripped the campus of Panjab University on Tuesday evening after two gunshots were reportedly fired near the Botany Department during the ongoing student fest “Jhankar.”

The incident occurred despite tight security arrangements on campus, where a large number of students had gathered for the event. According to initial information, the shots were fired in the air, allegedly to intimidate a student leader associated with SOPU (Student Organisation of Panjab University) due to an old rivalry.

Sources revealed that the firing took place just ahead of a scheduled performance by Punjabi singer Satinder Sartaaj. Meanwhile, there were also discussions around another show proposal involving singer Mankirt Aulakh, reportedly backed by a SOPU leader.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Chandigarh Kanwardeep Kaur confirmed that two empty shells were recovered from the spot. Preliminary investigation suggests that the firing was intended to threaten student leader Jashanpreet Singh Jawanda. However, no formal complaint has been filed so far.

Police officials stated that CCTV footage from the campus is being examined to identify the accused, and efforts are underway to apprehend those involved. Security has been further tightened, and patrolling has been intensified in and around the university.

Jashanpreet Jawanda had previously contested the Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC) elections as a candidate for the post of General Secretary from SOPU. Notably, during the 2024 elections, he was publicly projected as a candidate by Ravi Rajgarh, an associate of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.

Authorities have assured that the situation is under control and that strict action will be taken against those responsible.