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Panjab University morcha calls Dec 3 gherao of BJP offices

After late-night exam chaos and heavy police deployment, PU Bachao Morcha steps up pressure for Senate polls

After a 26-day sustained student protest, Panjab University finally releases the long-awaited Senate election schedule. (File)

The Panjab University Bachao Morcha Wednesday announced a gherao of BJP offices in Chandigarh and across Punjab on December 3, signalling an escalation in its campaign demanding the announcement of Senate elections. At a press conference at the campus protest site, the morcha leaders said they would intensify agitation until the university issues the election schedule and provides written confirmation of commitments made during negotiations.

“This struggle will not pause,” said Manika of PSU Lalkar. “If the authorities think they can wait us out, they are mistaken. December 3 is only the beginning if they keep delaying.”

Heavy deployment on November 26

Despite the holiday declared for November 26, the campus saw heavy police and paramilitary presence, including Chandigarh Police, RAF units and barricades, at key entry points. Farmer unions, labour groups, teachers’ bodies and civil society organisations visited the protest site through the day to express solidarity.

Late-night uproar forces PU to retreat again

The administration had announced a holiday for November 26 after a meeting on Tuesday between SSP Kanwardeep Kaur, Registrar Y P Verma, DSW Amit Chauhan and morcha representatives — a reversal of its earlier stand that exams and classes would proceed as usual.
But only hours later, the university attempted to conduct examinations by shifting centres to DAV College in sectors 40, 41, 43 and 44. The move triggered instant backlash, with students gathering outside hostels and campus gates demanding clarity. Around 9 pm, the university issued a fresh notice postponing the papers.

Ashmit Singh, vice-president of PUCSC, said the chain of decisions showed the administration was “playing tricks” rather than governing. “They think they can outsmart students, but every time they try a tactic, they get exposed,” he said.

Postponements pile up, students bear the cost

For students not part of the agitation, the uncertainty has become increasingly distressing. Papers scheduled for November 18, 19 and 20 had already been postponed; with the latest notification, the November 26 exams have now been added to the list.

Nipun Suri, department representative of UILS, said the disruption was hurting students the most. “People have jobs lined up, entrance tests coming, families waiting. These delays hurt us, not the administration,” he said.
Many students said they spent hours refreshing notices and messaging departments. “We are stuck in limbo,” said Manpreet Kaur, a postgraduate student. “Either hold exams or give a revised schedule. This drifting is worse than a protest.”

The writer is an intern with The Indian Express

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