Panjab University Protests 2025: Heavy Police Deployment as Students Demand Senate Elections

Chandigarh | November 10, 2025:The Panjab University (PU) campus turned into a high-security zone on Monday as students launched a fresh protest demanding the immediate announcement of Senate elections. The demonstration, led by the Panjab University Bachao Morcha, comes even after the Centre withdrew its controversial order restructuring the university’s Senate and Syndicate.

Why Are Students Protesting at Panjab University?

Students and faculty have been demanding the restoration of democratic governance within the university.The Ministry of Education’s October 28 notification had amended the Panjab University Act, 1947, reducing the Senate strength from 91 to 31 members and eliminating elections for the Syndicate, its top executive body.

Following widespread criticism, the Centre withdrew the order on November 7, but the students insist that the Senate election schedule, pending for over a year, must be announced immediately.

Campus Under Tight Security

Authorities have stepped up security across Panjab University, anticipating a campus shutdown.

• Police barricades were placed at all major entry and exit points.

• Security personnel were deployed at the Chandigarh-Mohali borders.

• All university gates are being monitored, with access restricted to ID-card holders only.

The university administration declared holidays on November 10 and 11 to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure safety.

Student Leaders Call for Peaceful Protest

PUCSC vice-president Ashmeet Singh said all arrangements have been made for a peaceful and disciplined demonstration.

“We are demanding that the university immediately announce Senate polls. Many students are being denied campus entry, but our protest will remain non-violent,” said Singh.

Student leader Abhishek Dagar reiterated that the agitation will continue until the Senate election dates are made public.

Political Support for Students’ Movement

The protest has gained backing from political leaders, farmer bodies, and civil society groups across Punjab.Notable supporters include:

• Gurmeet Singh Khuddian, Punjab Minister

• Partap Singh Bajwa, Leader of Opposition, Punjab Assembly

• Dharamvira Gandhi and Amar Singh, Congress MPs

• Rana Gurjeet Singh, Congress MLA

• Pawan Kumar Bansal, former Union Minister

These leaders have urged the Centre to uphold democratic values and protect the autonomy of Panjab University.

What’s Next for Panjab University?

While the Ministry has revoked its earlier order, there is still no clarity on the new Senate election schedule.Students and teachers have stressed the need to preserve the university’s independent governance system, warning that any further delay could affect academic and administrative functions.

Conclusion

The Panjab University protest underscores a larger debate on academic autonomy and democratic participation in India’s higher-education system.As heavy security continues around the campus, student leaders have vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until the Senate elections are formally announced.