CHANDIGARH – Heavy police forces deployed across Panjab University (PU) campus on Monday, November 13, ahead of a planned student ‘university shutdown’. Students, operating under the ‘Panjab University Bachao Morcha’ banner, demand the immediate announcement of Senate election dates. These elections have not occurred for over a year, sparking continued student agitation.
Police Secure Campus Ahead of Shutdown
Authorities deployed significant police presence both on and around the Panjab University campus. Entry points were barricaded, and checkpoints established on various roads. Security personnel also stationed themselves at Chandigarh-Mohali border points. University officials announced holidays for Monday and Tuesday, November 13-14, restricting campus access to only those with valid university identification cards.
Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC) vice-president Ashmeet Singh confirmed preparations for a peaceful protest. Singh reported that many students were denied entry to the campus on Monday.
Protests Demand Senate Elections
The current student protests primarily focus on the unannounced schedule for Senate elections. The university’s governing body, the Senate, plays a crucial role in decision-making. Student leader Abhishek Dagar stated the protest would continue peacefully until election dates are released.
The student movement initially opposed the Ministry of Education’s October 28 notification. This order aimed to restructure the university’s governing bodies, the Senate and Syndicate. The proposed changes would have reduced the Senate’s strength from 91 to 31 members and eliminated elections for the Syndicate. This move was widely criticized by students and political leaders.
Ministry Withdraws Restructuring Order
On November 7, the Ministry of Education withdrew its controversial October 28 order following widespread student protests and political condemnation. This withdrawal reversed the proposed reduction in Senate strength and the elimination of Syndicate elections.
Despite this reversal, students have maintained their agitation. They argue the core issue of delayed Senate elections remains unaddressed. The ‘Panjab University Bachao Morcha’ emphasizes that the withdrawal of the restructuring order is insufficient. They insist on a clear timeline for the democratic process of electing Senate members. The absence of these elections for over a year has created a governance vacuum and fuelled student discontent.
Political Support for Students
Several political figures and organizations have voiced support for the protesting students. Leaders from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Indian National Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) have extended solidarity. Farmers’ bodies and artists have also backed the students’ demands.
Prominent supporters include Punjab minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, Congress MPs Dharamvira Gandhi and Amar Singh, MLA Rana Gurjeet Singh, and former Union minister Pawan Kumar Bansal. These leaders publicly supported the student cause on Sunday, November 12, ahead of the planned shutdown.
Timeline of Key Events
- October 28: Ministry of Education issues order to restructure PU Senate (reducing seats from 91 to 31, ending Syndicate elections).
- Late October/Early November: Students form ‘Panjab University Bachao Morcha’ and begin protests against restructuring.
- November 7: Ministry of Education withdraws the October 28 restructuring order due to mounting pressure.
- November 12: Political leaders extend support to students, backing their demand for Senate elections.
- November 13: Students call for ‘university shutdown’ to press for Senate election dates; heavy police deployed.