The Punjab University (PU) shutdown has intensified, turning from a governance reform protest into a regional identity debate. Students from Punjab and Haryana are now voicing opposing views about the university’s heritage and historical roots.

Protest Gains Historical Angle

The protest, initially focused on administrative reforms, now includes Punjab-Haryana tensions over Chandigarh and PU’s history.

• Punjab-based students raised slogans like:

  • “Mithi dhun rabab di, PU Punjab di”

  • “Khideya phull gulab da, Chandigarh Punjab da”

Supporters argue that these slogans reflect PU’s pre-1966 origins and the fact that Chandigarh was built on Punjab land. Raman, leader of the PU Bachao Morcha, said:

“We respect Haryana, but the university and the city have roots in Punjab.”

Haryana Students Push Back

Many Haryana-domicile students feel the protest’s focus on Senate reforms is being overshadowed.

• On Sunday, they spoke out on social media, urging leaders not to make it a Punjab-Haryana dispute.

• Two PUCSC office-bearers from Haryana stayed off-stage during Monday’s mobilization.

• Former student leader Puneet Masitan emphasized that Haryana must receive fair representation in the Senate. He urged that the protest should not escalate into a regional conflict.

Haryana Students and Alumni Respond

After a late-night meeting, Haryana students and PU alumni released a statement rejecting claims that PU belongs exclusively to Punjab.

The statement highlighted:

• PU’s pre-reorganisation jurisdiction over Haryana districts

• Chandigarh’s joint capital status

• The need for equal representation in structural reforms

“Haryana has an equal historical, academic, and moral stake in PU,” the statement read.

Internal Campus Tensions

Disagreements emerged within the student coordination committee. PUCSC joint secretary Mohit Manderna argued with other leaders over slogans and narratives.

As both sides assert historical claims, the campus navigates demands for reforms while balancing decades-old regional issues.

Key Points

• PU shutdown started over administrative reforms.

• Punjab students emphasize historical and cultural roots.

• Haryana students demand equal rights and representation.

• University authorities aim to maintain peace and avoid escalation.