Explainer: PU governance reset that’s been withdrawn
The Centre may have rolled back the overhaul of the Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University, but it has ignited a debate on administrative reforms, academic autonomy, and Punjab’s rights
Updated At : 05:31 AM Nov 09, 2025 IST
The October 30 notification invoked Section 72 of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, to amend the Panjab University Act, 1947. It substituted Section 13 (on Ordinary Fellows) and omitted Section 14 (on Senate elections). Tribune photo
The Centre’s decision to roll back the sweeping overhaul of the governing bodies of Panjab University, Chandigarh — the Senate and the Syndicate — follows a strong political backlash over the controversial move in Punjab. Within academic circles, though, opinion remains divided on the restructuring of the varsity’s governance model. On November 4, the Centre had put on hold and not withdrawn its October 30 notification on the new rules of engagement, prompting students and Opposition parties to intensify their agitation. The November 7 order effectively nullifies all the changes. But what were these changes, why were these effected, and why the fierce criticism?
