Tandon briefs VP on PU turmoil, seeks sensitive resolution

Former Chandigarh BJP president Sanjay Tandon met Vice President of India and Panjab University Chancellor CP Radhakrishnan at Puttaparthi and conveyed the city’s concerns over the ongoing turbulence at Panjab University following the controversial overhaul and subsequent withdrawal of notifications.

The half-hour meeting took place on the sidelines of the 100th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Tandon apprised the Vice President of the sentiments of Chandigarh residents, university staff and Senate members, stressing the need for a balanced and sensitive approach as the PU continues to witness unrest and uncertainty over its democratic and administrative structure.

Tandon told The Tribune that he briefed the Vice President on the evolving situation on the campus, the delay in announcing Senate elections, and the wider debate over governance reforms. He emphasised the PU’s potential to regain its stature as a leading global academic institution if stability, dialogue and clarity are restored.

Radhakrishnan, who as Chancellor plays a pivotal role in key decisions relating to the PU, assured Tandon that the concerns raised would be addressed with “full sensitivity” and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the university’s academic excellence and autonomy. He expressed confidence that the university could be steered toward “continuous glory” with the cooperation of all stakeholders.

The meeting also touched upon other institutional matters, including the age of retirement for faculty and staff. Tandon submitted his preliminary recommendations, which the Vice President reportedly received positively. Radhakrishnan asked Tandon to prepare a detailed paper for further discussions in New Delhi in the coming days.

The meeting is being seen as a significant political intervention at a time when the PU remains on edge, with students continuing their dharna and demanding immediate notification of Senate elections.