The Union Ministry of Education recently rescinded its contentious order to restructure the Senate and Syndicate of Panjab University, rolling back a move that had sparked sustained criticism from political parties, student groups, and senior academics.

The reversal comes just days after the Centre invoked provisions of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966, to alter the constitution and composition of the university’s two highest decision-making bodies.

The original notification had been issued on the basis of recommendations from a High Level Committee constituted by the Chancellor on March 2, 2021, and following consultations with select stakeholders.

However, the announcement triggered an immediate backlash. The Aam Aadmi Party, Congress, and Shiromani Akali Dal—along with multiple student organisations—accused the Centre of undermining the university’s autonomous governance framework.

Strong objections also poured in from faculty members, former vice-chancellors, and the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, prompting the Ministry to revisit its decision.

According to an official statement, the government reviewed extensive feedback received through formal submissions, stakeholder meetings and consultations with student bodies. “Having regard to the above, it has now been decided by the Ministry of Education that the aforesaid order changing the constitution and composition of the Senate and Syndicate shall stand rescinded,” the statement said.

With the rollback, the existing governance structure of Panjab University remains intact, easing immediate tensions but leaving broader questions of institutional reform still unresolved.