NAPA extends support to students, says Panjab University belongs to Punjab

The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has extended its support to students, faculty and people of Punjab who are struggling to safeguard the democratic and historical character of Panjab University, Chandigarh.

In a statement, NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal said Panjab University is not only an academic institution — it is a cultural and intellectual heritage of Punjab. For decades, the university has nurtured scholars, scientists and reformers who have contributed to the state’s identity, he said.

Chahal criticised the proposals to restructure the university’s Senate and Syndicate by replacing elected representatives with nominated members. He said the move was an attempt to dilute democratic representation and centralise control. He alleged the step would undermine the Panjab University Act and the university’s long-standing links with Punjab.

“The recent withdrawal of the controversial notification by the Union Government is a victory of the people and students of Punjab,” Chahal noted.

“But this should only be seen as the first step. The struggle for complete justice and the restoration of Punjab’s rightful say in the affairs of Panjab University must continue until clear legal and constitutional guarantees are established,” he said.

NAPA urged the Union Government to recognise Panjab University as a state university with full autonomy, preserving its historic link with Punjab. The organisation also called on Members of Parliament from Punjab, members of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha and civil society groups to protect the university’s character.

Chahal appealed to students and youth organisations to continue their peaceful struggle, emphasising that education must remain free from politics, bias, and external interference.

“The Panjab University belongs to the people of Punjab, and its governance must reflect their will, culture, and contribution,” he said.

NAPA reaffirmed that it will continue to raise this issue on international forums and among the global Punjabi diaspora to ensure that the voice of Punjab’s students and intellectuals is heard loud and clear across the world.