In a significant development that has sparked both relief and renewed determination, the central government has withdrawn its controversial notification seeking to change the constitution and composition of Panjab University's Senate and Syndicate. However, student and faculty unions have made it clear that their battle is far from over.
Victory Acknowledged, But Fight Continues
The withdrawal, which came on Friday, November 9, 2025, following two days of uncertainty, has been welcomed by the university community but has not led to the cessation of protests. Student leaders across various unions have unanimously declared that their struggle will persist until the official schedule for Senate elections is announced.
Gaurav Veer Sohal, president of the Panjab University Campus Students' Council (PUCSC), described the Centre's decision as a "significant victory" for students. He emphasized that the withdrawal represents a "major step toward restoring the democratic traditions" of the historic institution.
Student Leaders Speak Out
Archit Garg, former vice-president of PUCSC, offered a more cautious perspective, stating that the withdrawal was not a "favour" from the Centre but rather "a result of students and stakeholders standing up for democracy." He accused the central government of deliberately delaying Senate elections for over a year to weaken the autonomous character of Panjab University.
"Our protest will continue till the democratic rights of this campus are fully restored and the Senate elections are conducted without further political interference," Garg asserted firmly.
United Front Across Student Unions
The sentiment of continued resistance was echoed by leaders across different student organizations. Both Manika from PSU-Lalkaar and Avtar Singh from SOPU insisted that the struggle will persist until the election schedule is formally announced.
Avtar Singh provided detailed clarification about the movement's objectives: "The Ministry of Education has issued a notice annulling the amendments made in the Senate, which represents a significant achievement. However, the primary objective of Panjab University Bachao Morcha is to ensure elections for the original 91-member Senate."
He confirmed that protests scheduled for November 10 would proceed as planned, and the Morcha would continue unveiling new programs until their core demand is met.
Faculty Support and Broader Implications
The teaching community has thrown its weight behind the student movement. Professor Tarun Ghai, president of the Association of United College Teachers, Punjab and Chandigarh, characterized the withdrawn notification as a "dictatorial order" that would have weakened the university's Senate and Syndicate.
"This is a victory for democratic institutions and for the faith of Punjab's youth in democratic values. Our teachers' association welcomes this decision," Professor Ghai stated.
Professor Rajat Sandhir, a former Senator, expressed hope that elections would be declared soon "so that the governing body is in place and PU makes rapid strides in its journey to become a global player."
The united stand by students and faculty underscores the deep commitment to preserving Panjab University's autonomous character and democratic processes, setting the stage for continued engagement until all democratic rights are fully restored.
