The Panjab University shutdown has intensified, and the Panjab University shutdown has pushed the PU Bachao Morcha to expand the agitation beyond the campus. On Wednesday, as the protest entered its 26th day, Morcha leaders announced a gherao of BJP leaders and party offices on December 3. They also repeated that the movement will continue until the Senate election schedule returns to the pre-October 30 system.
The agitation gained force after The Tribune revealed the controversial restructuring of Panjab University on November 1. That report sparked a political storm. Soon, the Centre withdrew the changes through four quick notifications issued between October 30 and November 7. However, despite this retreat, the protest did not fade. The delay in restoring the old Senate structure has kept tempers high.
Earlier, on November 9, the Vice-Chancellor recommended restoring the earlier Senate. Yet the Chancellor and the Vice-President have not approved it. Because of this silence, students and teachers believe the government wants to delay democratic processes. Moreover, unions and alumni groups say the Centre’s hesitation has deepened mistrust.
Today’s shutdown added new energy to the movement. The PU administration declared November 26 a holiday and postponed all semester exams. Students said this decision showed how much pressure the protest has created. Meanwhile, the Student Centre, library, academic blocks and campus markets remained fully closed. Morcha leaders called it a major success.
Now, the Morcha plans to widen the mobilisation before December 3. Teams will visit colleges in Mohali, Ludhiana, Patiala and parts of Haryana. They will also hold torch marches, night rallies and awareness campaigns. According to the leaders, these activities will strengthen public support.
Finally, Morcha members say the coming days will shape the fate of the Senate and the direction of the struggle.
