Summary: What began as a call for democracy on campus spiraled into chaos on Monday — as Chandigarh Police and protesters clashed at Panjab University, reigniting the fight for its Senate elections.
Samay in 60 Seconds
- Protesters demanding Senate polls at Panjab University clashed with Chandigarh Police.
- Police used lathicharge to stop protesters, including students and farm union members.
- The agitation continued despite the Centre’s rollback of the restructuring plan.
- Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and several opposition leaders extended support.
- The university declared two-day closure amid heavy police deployment.
Panjab University Protest – Key Facts at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Protest over Senate elections at Panjab University |
| Date | November 10–11, 2025 |
| Location | Chandigarh, Punjab University campus |
| Trigger | Delay in announcing Senate election schedule |
| Govt Action | Centre withdrew restructuring plan on Nov 7 |
| Police Action | Lathicharge at Gate No. 1; 2,000+ personnel deployed |
| Key Demand | Restore campus democracy via elections |
What Happened at Panjab University
The Panjab University campus turned into a protest ground as hundreds of students, farmers, and activists stormed the gates demanding the long-delayed Senate elections. Despite heavy barricading, protesters managed to enter through Gate No. 1, leading to scuffles with police.
Videos from the site showed Chandigarh SSP Kanwardeep Kaur attempting to calm the situation before a lathicharge dispersed the crowd.
Farm union members led by Balbir Singh Rajewal joined the students, calling the movement a fight for Punjab’s autonomy.
Why It Matters
At the heart of the protest lies the demand to restore democracy on campus. The university’s Senate — its top decision-making body — has been defunct since October 2024.
Although the Centre withdrew its plan to replace elected bodies with nominated ones, the absence of an election timeline has kept the tension alive.
For many in Punjab, the move was seen as an assault on the state’s rights and federal structure, especially since Panjab University has shared governance between the Centre and the state since 1947.
Impact on You
This isn’t just a campus issue — it’s a test of institutional independence in India’s education system.
If Panjab University loses its elected governance, it could set a precedent for other central institutions, reshaping how universities are run. Students, teachers, and alumni see the movement as a stand for academic democracy.
Samay’s Voice — On the Ground
Democracy doesn’t just begin at the ballot box — it begins on campus.
When students raise their voices for free elections, they’re not rebelling. They’re reminding us what freedom looks like.
Street FAQs
Q1. Why are students protesting at Panjab University?
They demand the announcement of Senate elections that have been pending since October 2024.
Q2. Didn’t the Centre withdraw its order?
Yes, the restructuring order was rolled back on November 7, but protesters want a clear election schedule.
Q3. Who is supporting the movement?
Leaders from AAP, Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal, alongside farm unions and student bodies.
Q4. Has the campus reopened?
No, the university has declared holidays on November 10–11, and access remains restricted.
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Sources
- HT Chandigarh Bureau
- The Indian Express
- Tribune Chandigarh Live Updates
- Video credits : Babushahi
- SamayTimes Ground Network
