Panjab University Protest: What Triggered Student Protests In Chandigarh? Senate And Syndicate Explained

Panjab University Protest Update: Student protests at Panjab University (PU) in Chandigarh have continued to grow, with several political groups, farmers’ organisations and public figures joining the agitation. The protestors are demanding that the university immediately announce the long-pending Senate election dates, which have not been declared for over a year.

The agitation, led under the banner of ‘Panjab University Bachao Morcha’, first began against the Centre’s decision to restructure the university’s governing bodies. The Ministry of Education had issued a notification on October 28 proposing changes to the Senate and Syndicate. The notification abolished the Graduate Constituency and reduced the strength of the Senate from 91 to 31 members, replacing several elected posts with nominated positions. Students and political leaders argued that the move interfered with Punjab’s rights and would centralise control of the institution.

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Government Withdraws Order But Students Continue Protest

Following widespread opposition, the Centre withdrew the notification on November 7. However, students refused to end their protest, saying the rollback did not address their main demand: the announcement of Senate poll dates. They have also accused the university of delaying the election process. PU officials state that a schedule has been prepared but is still awaiting approval from the chancellor.

Tensions Rise As Students Clash With Police

The protest intensified on November 10 when students broke through barricades, climbed building entrances and confronted the police. Several political parties, including AAP, Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), along with farmer unions such as the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, have expressed support for the movement. SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal visited the university and announced that a party delegation would meet the vice president of India, stressing that Panjab University is emotionally and historically linked to Punjab.

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Political Parties And Farmer Groups Extend Support

Due to the ongoing agitation, PU has postponed all examinations scheduled between 18 and 20 November. The Controller of Examinations said fresh dates will be announced later, advising students to check official updates.

What Are Senate And Syndicate

The Senate and Syndicate form the core of PU’s governance. The Senate is the highest decision-making body, comprising over 100 elected and nominated members, while the Syndicate functions as the executive committee responsible for implementing Senate decisions.