Row over Punjabi University’s Rs 53K ‘golden chance’ scheme

To commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur, Punjabi University, Patiala, has announced a “golden chance” for the students who were unable to complete their degrees for various reasons.

However, the fee being charged to avail the opportunity has sparked strong criticism among students and teachers alike.

Under the scheme, the university has fixed an examination fee of Rs 50,000 plus Rs 3,000 in taxes, drawing flak for what is being termed an exorbitant charge.

The Association of United College Teachers (AUCT) and student organisations have accused the university of exploiting students in the name of the Guru’s commemoration.

AUCT president Prof Tarun Ghai condemned the move, saying, “The recent circular issued by Punjabi University to mark the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Teg Bahadur, announcing a ‘golden chance’ for students to appear in their supplementary or improvement examinations with a fee of Rs 53,000, is nothing more than a money-making move. We strongly oppose it and demand that the fee be kept nominal for students. That would be a real tribute to Guru Teg Bahadur.”

The university authorities, however, have justified the fee structure, maintaining that the “golden chance” scheme is not new and that the same fee had been in place for several years.

The last date to apply is November 15. Exams for odd semesters (first, third, and fifth) will be held in December, while even semester (second, fourth, sixth) exams will take place in May 2026.

This opportunity is open only for courses under the semester system introduced after May 2011. The exams will follow the current syllabus and will be conducted exclusively at Patiala. The university has clarified that the fee once paid will not be refunded under any circumstances.

Gurdas Singh, district president, Punjab Student Union, termed the move “exploitative” and “insensitive”.

“This is not a ‘golden chance’ for students, but for the university itself,” they said.

Gurdas Singh said, “Instead of earning money in the name of Guru Sahib, the university should allow students to complete their degrees free of cost. The administration must roll back the decision so that more students can genuinely benefit from this opportunity and secure a better future.”