ASAP Launches Statewide Campaign Against Dissolution of Panjab University Senate

Chandigarh(The Uttam Hindu): The Association of Students for Alternative Politics (ASAP) has strongly condemned the recent dissolution of the Panjab University Senate, calling it a direct violation of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, and a grave attack on Punjab’s constitutional and educational autonomy.

Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, State Spokesperson Vatanveer Singh Gill and State General Secretary Prince Chaudhary accused the central government of attempting to dismantle Punjab’s academic independence through unilateral and unconstitutional actions.

They announced that ASAP, in coordination with allied student unions and teachers’ organisations across Punjab and Chandigarh, will launch a statewide academic shutdown campaign to protest the Centre’s decision. The movement will include peaceful demonstrations, campus dialogues, and coordinated institutional actions aimed at restoring democratic governance and federal accountability in Panjab University.

“The Centre’s move is not just an administrative decision, it is a calculated attempt to silence Punjab’s academic and cultural identity,” said Prince Chaudhary, adding that the people of Punjab will not tolerate any encroachment on their educational institutions.

Reaffirming ASAP’s commitment to defend Punjab’s and Panjab University's rights, Vatanveer Singh Gill declared, “We will not allow Punjab’s educational independence to be dismantled. This movement will continue relentlessly until the voice of the state and its students is heard.”

ASAP leaders concluded by urging all student and teacher bodies to unite under a common banner to protect the academic sovereignty and democratic spirit of Panjab University.