Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to seize control over institutions fundamental to Punjab. This sharp criticism followed the Union Ministry of Education’s decision on Friday to withdraw a contentious notification concerning Panjab University’s governing bodies. The Centre’s reversal came after significant political pressure and student protests.
Centre Rescinds Panjab University Notification
The Ministry of Education officially rescinded its October 28 notification. This order had proposed significant changes to the constitution and composition of Panjab University’s Senate and Syndicate. The original notification aimed to amend the Panjab University Act, 1947 . Key proposals included reducing the Senate, which functions as the university’s apex governing body, to a fixed size of 31 members . Furthermore, it sought to eliminate the electoral process for the executive Syndicate body.
The Centre’s decision to withdraw the notification was a direct response to widespread opposition. Political parties across Punjab, including the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Indian National Congress, and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), had vehemently opposed the restructuring plan. Student organizations also launched protests, asserting their demands for the preservation of the university’s autonomy and traditional governance structure.
CM Mann Accuses BJP of ‘Capture’ Attempt
Responding to the Centre’s withdrawal, Chief Minister Mann underscored the university’s historical significance. “Panjab University is a legacy of Punjab,” Mann stated, highlighting its deep roots in the state’s educational landscape. He also pointed out that the Punjab government provides crucial funding to the institution, reinforcing its connection to the state’s administration and resources.
Mann directly accused the Centre of attempting to “illegally infiltrate” the university’s Senate and Syndicate. He framed the proposed restructuring as part of a broader strategy by the BJP to undermine Punjab’s institutions. The Chief Minister asserted that Punjab would not surrender its rights or control over such vital bodies.
Allegations of Past Interventions
The Chief Minister elaborated on his allegations by citing past instances of attempted interference. He recalled a specific demand from BJP-ruled Haryana. This demand sought the affiliation of colleges in Haryana’s districts— Ambala, Panchkula, and Yamunanagar —with Panjab University. “I had completely rejected that demand,” Mann affirmed, clarifying his government’s stance against external control.
Mann argued that Haryana’s affiliation request was not about academic collaboration. Instead, he claimed it was a strategic maneuver designed to facilitate the BJP’s entry into the powerful Panjab University Senate. He described this as a pattern of behavior aimed at exerting control over Punjab’s educational framework.
Broader ‘Anti-Punjab Syndrome’ Claimed
Extending his accusations beyond Panjab University, Mann alleged a wider intent by the BJP. “The BJP wants to capture anything related to Punjab,” he stated emphatically. He offered the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) as another example of an institution where Punjab’s rights have been challenged.
Mann’s statement reinforced his government’s resolve to protect the state’s interests. “Whether it’s our fight for PU, BBMB, or other issues, Punjab will never relinquish its rights,” he declared. He further accused the BJP of suffering from an “anti-Punjab syndrome,” suggesting a deliberate intent to harm the state. “They are hell bent on ruining the state,” Mann concluded, highlighting the escalating political tensions surrounding Punjab’s institutional autonomy.