Chandigarh (Rajeev Sharma): Tensions continue to simmer at Panjab University (PU) even after the Central government rolled back its notification proposing changes to the university’s Senate structure. Student groups and faculty members have refused to end their agitation, demanding that the administration immediately announce dates for the long-pending Senate elections.
The Panjab University Bachao Morcha and several student unions maintained that their protest would go ahead as planned, including a campus-wide shutdown scheduled for Monday. The term of the previous Senate expired on October 31, 2023, and no new election process has been initiated since, a delay that protesters say undermines the university’s democratic framework.
While the Centre’s withdrawal of the notification was seen as a partial victory, protestors insist the rollback is “not enough.” They want an official schedule released to restore confidence in the university’s governance system.
Political and social groups join hands
The ongoing agitation has drawn attention from political parties, student organizations, and farmers’ unions, turning the campus into a symbol of resistance against what many perceive as interference in Punjab’s educational autonomy. On Thursday, over 40 members of farmers’ unions joined students on campus, later attending a meeting of the PU Students Council to discuss future strategy.
Several leaders across party lines have voiced their backing:
- Harsimrat Kaur Badal, MP, described PU as “the embodiment of Punjab’s democratic spirit,” warning that any unilateral attempt to weaken it would be opposed both within and outside Parliament.
- Pargat Singh, Congress MLA, said that the protest transcends politics, asserting, “This movement is about safeguarding academic independence and representation.”
- Giani Harpreet Singh, former Jathedar of the Akal Takht, criticized the Centre for “trying to restrict Punjab’s say in university affairs,” stressing that the Senate represents a vital democratic platform.
- Harjinder Singh Dhami, president of the SGPC, called the agitation a “fight to preserve democracy,” pledging complete support for the students’ shutdown call.
- Sukhanand, AAP MLA, remarked that the protests have unified diverse political voices, reflecting “Punjab’s collective demand for institutional respect and self-governance.”
Campus atmosphere remains charged
The university grounds, once known for academic bustle, now echo with slogans and solidarity marches. With no official word yet on an election date, both students and faculty have vowed to continue their sit-ins and rallies.
A senior member of the Panjab University Teachers’ Association said the withdrawal of the notification was “a step forward, but far from a resolution,” adding that “restoring normalcy requires the immediate announcement of elections.”
As the shutdown looms, the Chandigarh administration and police are keeping a close watch on the situation, preparing for large gatherings expected early next week.
For now, Panjab University stands at the crossroads of academic reform and political assertion — with the spirit of democracy at the heart of its unrest.
