Panjab University has witnessed nearly two weeks of intense protests led by students demanding the preservation of institutional autonomy. The unrest began after the Centre issued a notification proposing to reduce the size of the university's Senate and Syndicate, its key decision-making bodies. Critics viewed this move as an attempt to centralise control and undermine Punjab's claim over Chandigarh. The issue quickly escalated into a political controversy, with Punjab's Chief Minister and opposition parties condemning it as an assault on federalism and the university's 143-year legacy. After sustained protests, farmer support, and clashes at the Mohali-Chandigarh border, the Centre withdrew the notification on November 7. However, students continue their agitation, demanding elections to the Senate, which have been overdue since last October. The episode has reignited debates over university autonomy and regional rights.
Protests Begin and Political Outcry Follows
The protests started on October 28 when the Panjab University Campus Students' Council announced demonstrations against the Centre's decision to reduce the Senate from 91 members to 31 and shrink the Syndicate. Led by PUCSC general secretary Abhishek Dagar through the Panjab University Bachao Morcha, students also opposed the university's demand for anti-protest affidavits. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accused the BJP of attacking Punjab's autonomy, while Congress and the Shiromani Akali Dal termed it a direct assault on federalism. Farmers from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha joined the protests on the campus with tractors, breaking barricades and clashing with police at the border. The SKM announced a rally in Chandigarh on November 26.
Source: Link