LSR Suspends Classes After Encounter Near Campus; Students Weigh Leaving Delhi

Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR) suspended classes from noon on Tuesday (September 22, 2026) after a police encounter with one of the accused in the Astha Kunj Park gang-rape case took place barely 50 metres from the college's back gate. Classes were also suspended on Wednesday (September 23), students said, with some sessions moved online.

The encounter occurred near D.M. Office Road in Amar Colony. According to police, Asif, one of three men accused in the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old in Astha Kunj Park on Monday (September 21), opened fire at a police team that had intercepted him. Three rounds were allegedly fired, and one bullet struck a head constable's bulletproof jacket. Police returned two rounds in self-defence, one of which hit Asif in the right leg.

The shooting, coming hours after the alleged assault in the nearby park, has deepened unease among students. LSR Students' Union president Anusha Garg said around 2,000 to 3,000 women students live in paying guest accommodation and other housing around Astha Kunj Park while attending the college.

Several students said their parents had asked them to return home temporarily amid safety concerns. With classes suspended or shifted online, some were also considering leaving Delhi for the time being.

Students described avoiding travel alone, particularly on routes between the college, nearby Metro stations and their accommodation, and said they were commuting in groups instead. One student, who asked not to be named, said she lives in a PG in Greater Kailash and could not travel alone from college to her accommodation, describing a sense of unease and a wish to commute in a group at least for the day.

The Students' Union held an emergency online general body meeting on Tuesday night to discuss students' concerns and safety demands, including stronger security around the college perimeter.