Historic Breakthrough for Panjab University Governance
In a significant development for Panjab University's stalled administrative processes, Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan has formally approved the schedule for the much-delayed senate elections. Acting in his capacity as the university's chancellor, Radhakrishnan's approval sets the stage for complete restoration of the institution's democratic framework that had remained in limbo for over a year.
End to Uncertainty and Student Agitation
The official communication from the Vice-President's Secretariat reached Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig on Thursday, effectively ending months of uncertainty and student-led protests that had gripped the campus. The immediate reaction on campus saw a noticeable shift from tension to celebration, though student leaders indicated their struggle wasn't completely over.
PU Bachao Morcha, the student collective leading the protests, confirmed that while this represents a major victory, they will continue their agitation until several pending demands are met. Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig personally stepped out to meet with the protesters, urging them to call off their dharna in light of the positive development.
Election Timeline and Background
The elections for various constituencies of the 91-member senate, which serves as the university's supreme decision-making body, will be conducted between September 7 and October 4, 2026. The polling and result dates will be notified separately for each constituency.
This development comes after the previous senate's term concluded in October 2024, with fresh elections remaining uncertain for more than twelve months. The breakthrough follows weeks of persistent protests organized by PU Bachao Morcha, which had been demanding that the administration announce the election schedule.
The student agitation began earlier this year in response to the Centre's October 28 notification that proposed substantial changes to the composition and powers of both the senate and syndicate. Following meetings with student representatives, the education ministry withdrew this controversial notification on November 7, fully restoring the electoral system.
The Vice-President's Secretariat confirmed that their approval was based on Panjab University's proposal submitted on November 9, just two days after the ministry's withdrawal of the contentious notification.
Outstanding Demands and Future Negotiations
Despite the election schedule approval, PU Bachao Morcha has identified three critical issues that require resolution before they completely call off their protest movement. The student collective is demanding written assurance on:
- Quashing of FIRs against 14 students who were booked during a previous senate protest in 2024
- Rollback of recently introduced Standard Operating Procedures that regulate elections and student activities
- Scrapping of the committee formed to review demands raised by Haryana students concerning representation and possible college re-affiliation
The student leaders have indicated that further negotiations with university authorities will take place to address these pending matters, ensuring that the restoration of democratic processes is comprehensive and addresses all concerns raised during the protest movement.
