The North News
Chandigarh, June 27
Lok Sabha MP from Sangrur, Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer, has written to Vice President and Chancellor of Panjab University, Jagdeep Dhankhar, raising strong objections to what he calls “arbitrary and undemocratic” actions by the Union Government affecting the historic university.
In a formal communication sent on Thursday, Meet Hayer expressed concern that recent decisions by the Centre are undermining the prestige and academic autonomy of Panjab University—one of India’s most respected institutions.
His primary objection centres on a newly issued directive requiring students to submit a written affidavit pledging not to stage protests or demonstrations on campus. Hayer described the move as a direct assault on fundamental rights, particularly freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest, both enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
“This decision of a dictatorial nature cannot be accepted in any form,” Hayer stated. “The right to protest is not just legal—it is elemental to our democracy. This capricious order attacks that right.”
The Aam Aadmi Party MP noted that several unpopular university policies in the past were reversed only after student protests, and removing the right to dissent leaves the student body powerless and silenced.
He added that while Panjab University has long been a cradle of democratic values, with student council elections serving as a first experience of civic participation, the affidavit requirement flies in the face of this tradition. “It contradicts the very culture that Panjab University has nurtured for decades,” he said.
Citing the university’s track record of producing influential leaders, Hayer warned that such repressive measures threaten its democratic legacy and may disillusion future generations of students.
Calling on Dhankhar to intervene, Hayer said, “As the Chancellor of this august institution, I sincerely urge you to take personal interest and ensure this whimsical decision is rolled back.”
Meet Hayer urges Dhankhar to revoke PU protest affidavit order
