Law varsity students end 5-day protest

Ravneet Singh

Tribune News Service

Patiala, March 19

Agitating students of Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL) called off their five-day protest today. Deliberations took place between a committee constituted by the RGNUL Chancellor, Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice Krishna Murari and student representatives. 

The students and committee members came to a consensus on all the four demands of the former. 

In the afternoon, Punjab Advocate General Atul Nanda held a discussion with the authority concerned and exams scheduled to be held at 3 pm were rescheduled.

While speaking with The Tribune, Nanda said, “Students have reposed faith in the Vice-Chancellor (VC). They have withdrawn all their complaints. They want a little bit change in varsity’s environment in accordance with other universities. Students have agreed upon all the matters.” 

The AG said, “This is a way forward. There has to be a responsibility of students to adhere to their own security concerns.”

Issues resolved

The committee formed by the Chief Justice and student representatives came to a mutual agreement over unconditional revocation of six suspended students. A letter issued by the varsity read, “Suspension of six students stands revoked unconditionally and the matter is dropped.”

The committee decided to conduct an independent time-bound probe by a judicial officer nominated by the Chancellor over removal of the university administrative officer, Capt SP Singh. The administrative officer has been sent on a compulsory leave till the inquiry concludes.

Students would form an interim committee for finalising a draft charter for students’ representative body within two months. The draft would later be enforced in the university in accordance with law after getting approved from the General Council of the varsity. 

The university has also decided to implement similar entry and exit timing for girls and boys on the campus. Students would now be able to access library and other areas, including sports complex from 8 pm to 12 pm.

Lack of faith in RGNUL admn, say students

Students told the Advocate General that they do not trust the RGNUL administration.

They said, “We have been misled earlier as well. We have lost faith in the administration.” Nanda assured students that their issues would be resolved.  Students added that they were being targeted in case they raised voice against the varsity authorities. 

They also raised questions on the procedure followed during suspension of the students. The Advocate General apologised and said, “Before you even bring the matter to me, I apologise for it.”