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Education / Punjab Desk
The decision of the Central Government to dissolve the elected Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University, Chandigarh, has drawn sharp criticism across Punjab. Political and religious organizations have called it an attack on Punjab’s rights and educational autonomy.
The Punjab Congress president strongly opposed the move, saying that replacing the elected Senate and Syndicate with nominated members is an attempt to take control of a historic educational institution. He stated that this act follows a larger plan to dominate major academic and cultural centers of the country and warned that Punjabis will not tolerate such interference. He emphasized that Panjab University is an integral part of Punjabi identity and deeply connected to Punjab’s language, culture, and heritage.
He added that any effort to take this institution away from the people of Punjab would be strongly resisted. According to him, the decision is not only politically motivated but also deeply disrespectful to Punjab’s historical and educational legacy.
The President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) also condemned the Centre’s move, calling it another act of injustice against Punjab. He said the government’s step clearly aims to end Punjab’s control over this prestigious educational institution. The SGPC chief noted that the Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University were chosen through a democratic process, but the new system will place the university completely under central authority.
He called the decision dictatorial and a violation of India’s federal structure and the Punjab Reorganization Act. He also questioned the Punjab state government’s silence, saying it has failed to take strong action to protect Punjab’s rights on key issues like Chandigarh, river waters, and the Bhakra Beas Management Board.
Many intellectuals and social groups have also expressed concern, calling the decision a serious blow to Punjab’s autonomy and democratic spirit in higher education.