Punjabi University in Turmoil: FIR Registered After Mahan Kosh Copies Found Dumped, Buried

Patiala (The Uttam Hindu): A major controversy has erupted in Punjab after an FIR was registered against Punjabi University Vice-Chancellor (VC) Jagdeep Singh and three senior officials over allegations of sacrilege of the historic ‘Mahan Kosh’.

The FIR, lodged at Urban Estate Police Station, Patiala, names Registrar Davinder Singh, Dean Academic Affairs Davinderpal Singh, and Publications Bureau In-charge Harjinderpal Singh, alongside the VC. The officials have been accused of dumping and burying copies of the revered ‘Mahan Kosh’, a monumental encyclopedic work compiled by Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha, considered a cornerstone of Sikh literature and knowledge.

The allegations triggered widespread student protests on the university campus, with demonstrators demanding strict action against those responsible. Students staged sit-ins, accusing the administration of insulting Sikh heritage and showing disregard for Punjab’s cultural and academic legacy.

Eyewitness accounts and local reports claim that large quantities of damaged or unsold copies of Mahan Kosh were discarded and buried, instead of being preserved or distributed respectfully. The act has been termed “a direct insult to Sikh pride” by several protesting student unions.