Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Bringing relief to Punjab’s higher education sector, the Supreme Court has granted permission for 1,158 assistant professors and librarians to continue serving in government colleges until new appointments are made.
The ruling is expected to maintain academic stability in the state’s colleges, which had been facing uncertainty over faculty availability. Students will now be able to continue their courses without disruption, a concern that had been raised by parents and educators alike.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains welcomed the decision, calling it a significant step in safeguarding students’ learning. “The Hon’ble Court has ensured that the academic environment in our colleges remains unaffected. Meanwhile, the Punjab government is also preparing to submit a review petition in an effort to protect these recruitments permanently. We will put forth our strongest arguments,” Bains said in a statement.
The case revolves around the recent recruitment of assistant professors and librarians, which had been challenged in court, putting the future of those selected under question. With the apex court’s interim relief, the faculty members can continue their duties while the legal process takes its course.
The Higher Education Department has emphasized that this order will prevent any academic setback, especially as colleges prepare for the new semester.
