(Ozi news desk):
The extensive student protest at Panjab University (PU), which lasted for 11 days, was sparked by the government’s decision to reform the university’s governance framework. This significant movement has not only highlighted the students’ concerns but has also brought to the forefront Haryana’s longstanding aspiration for a more substantial role in the university’s administration. The protests reflect a broader discontent regarding governance issues and have reignited discussions about the equitable distribution of educational resources and representation within the institution, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to address the interests of all stakeholders involved.
The upcoming Northern Zonal Council meeting, led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on November 17 in Surajkund, Faridabad, presents an opportunity for the state government to seek approval for its proposal to re-affiliate colleges located in the districts of Panchkula, Ambala, and Yamunanagar with the university.
– Haryana has been working to re-establish its affiliation with Panjab University since 2017, aiming to include its colleges in the university’s framework.
– In the 2022 monsoon session, the Haryana Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution to seek a share of college affiliations and protect the interests of its citizens and students.
– In 2023, discussions between the Chief Ministers of Haryana and Punjab, including meetings led by the Punjab Governor, highlighted opposition from Punjab’s CM, Bhagwant Mann, who argued that the university embodies Punjab’s cultural and historical identity.
At a recent meeting, Khattar highlighted that although Haryana’s allocation was established under the Punjab Reorganisation Act of 1966 and its colleges and regional centers were affiliated with Punjab University (PU), this affiliation was revoked by a subsequent notification in the early 1970s. Despite Chief Minister Mann’s opposition, the Haryana Government remains steadfast in its pursuit of affiliation for colleges in three districts, having approached the Centre for support. A senior official from the state’s Higher Education Department noted that their request is currently under consideration by the Northern Zonal Council, led by the Union Home Minister, which is set to convene next week to address inter-state matters, including the affiliation issue. The official emphasized Haryana’s historical ties to PU, as many students from the state attend the university located in Chandigarh, which serves as a capital for both Haryana and Punjab. Media Secretary to the Chief Minister, Parveen Attrey, reinforced this position, asserting Haryana’s rightful claim to a share in PU and its governance, while expressing confidence in securing their demands through ongoing discussions with the Union Government.
