12 February 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : A law student in Punjab, who allegedly shot and killed a woman classmate before turning the gun on himself, has died from his injuries, police confirmed on Wednesday. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the academic community and raised serious concerns about student safety, mental health, and access to firearms.
The incident occurred on the premises of a law institute in Punjab, where both the accused and the victim were enrolled as students. According to preliminary investigations, the accused opened fire on the woman student following what police believe was a personal dispute. After shooting her, he allegedly shot himself in an apparent suicide attempt.
Both students were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. The woman was declared dead shortly after being brought in, while the accused remained on life support for several hours. Doctors later confirmed that the male student succumbed to his injuries, bringing a grim end to the incident.
Police officials stated that a firearm was recovered from the scene and has been sent for forensic examination. Initial inquiries suggest that the weapon may have been procured illegally, though investigators are still verifying how the accused obtained it. Authorities are also examining CCTV footage, witness statements, and digital evidence, including phone records, to establish the sequence of events and motive.
Senior police officers said the two students were known to each other and may have had prior disagreements. While investigators have not officially confirmed the motive, sources indicated that the incident may have been triggered by a personal or emotional conflict. Police have urged the public not to speculate until the investigation is complete.
The college administration immediately shut down the campus following the shooting and sent students home as a precautionary measure. Classes were suspended, and security was heightened to prevent further incidents. The management expressed deep sorrow over the loss of both students and said it was cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies.
In a statement, college authorities said they were shocked by the violence and emphasized that the institution had no prior indication of such extreme behavior. They also announced counseling and psychological support services for students and staff affected by the incident.
The deaths have sparked widespread outrage and grief across Punjab. Students from various colleges held silent vigils, demanding justice for the woman and stricter security measures on campuses. Many questioned how a firearm could be brought into an educational institution without detection.
Women’s rights groups have condemned the incident, calling it a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unchecked aggression and lack of emotional support among young adults. Activists have urged authorities to strengthen mechanisms for grievance redressal, mental health counseling, and early intervention in cases of harassment or conflict.
Mental health experts say the incident highlights the urgent need for psychological support systems in colleges and universities. Academic pressure, personal relationships, and emotional distress can sometimes create volatile situations if left unaddressed, they warn. Experts stressed that timely counseling and open communication channels could help prevent such tragedies.
The Punjab government has taken note of the incident and sought a detailed report from the police. Officials expressed condolences to the families of both students and assured that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure campus safety. The government is also expected to review existing guidelines related to security in educational institutions.
Legal experts noted that while the accused’s death brings an end to criminal proceedings against him, the investigation will continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. They added that the findings could influence future policy decisions regarding campus security and firearm control.
The family of the woman student has demanded strict action and accountability, stating that no other family should have to endure such a loss. Relatives described her as a bright and ambitious student with dreams of building a career in law.
As Punjab grapples with the aftermath of this disturbing incident, the focus remains on supporting grieving families, ensuring justice, and preventing similar tragedies. The case has once again brought to the forefront the pressing need for safer campuses, better mental health awareness, and stronger safeguards to protect students.
Summary
A Punjab law student, who allegedly killed a woman classmate before shooting himself on campus, has died from his injuries, prompting grief, outrage, and renewed calls for stronger campus security and mental health support.