Student's killing sparks protest at university

Protesters stage sit-in demanding arrest of suspects in campus shooting

ABBOTTABAD:

Examinations at Abbottabad University of Science and Technology (AUST) were abruptly cancelled after protests erupted over the killing of student leader Abdullah Khan at the university's main gate two days earlier.

According to reports, examination papers had already been distributed in several halls when the administration announced their cancellation. Invigilators subsequently collected the papers from students.

The decision followed large-scale demonstrations by students who gathered at the main gate, chanting slogans against the police and the university administration. The university later declared its closure until further notice.

Abdullah Khan, said to be affiliated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was allegedly shot dead during a clash between two student groups. Two other students were reportedly injured in the incident. Witnesses claimed that armed suspects fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

Students, members of the bereaved family, and local residents staged a sit-in at the university's main entrance, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible.

Among those who joined the protest was Uzair Sher Khan, Chairman of Havelian Tehsil, who expressed solidarity with the demonstrators.

Addressing the gathering alongside the university registrar, he criticised what he described as a "biased attitude" on the part of the police.

He warned that if the principal accused - reportedly including the son of a PTI MPA - were not arrested within 24 hours, protesters would block the Silk Road and the Hazara Motorway.

The university registrar also spoke to the demonstrators, stating that the administration would fully support efforts to ensure the arrest of those involved.