Tensions Rise at Punjabi University as Non-Teaching Staff Protest Intensifies
Punjabi University faces escalating tensions as non-teaching staff protest for regularization, prompting disciplinary notices from administration.
Patiala, October 29 (Daily Kiran) : In Patiala, tensions are escalating at Punjabi University due to a protest by non-teaching staff. The university administration has issued show-cause notices to 18 employees involved in the demonstration.
These staff members have been staging a sit-in at the main gate for an extended period, demanding better job security. On Wednesday, they blocked both entrances of Administrative Block-2, disrupting work for officials and staff throughout the day.
The administration has taken a firm stance, labeling the actions as serious misconduct. The notice requires the 18 employees to submit a written explanation by 10 a.m. on October 30, 2026. Failure to provide a satisfactory response could lead to departmental action against them. This situation has heightened concerns about potential unrest on campus.
Despite the administration’s warnings, the Non-Teaching Staff Association plans to escalate their protest. Association leader Gurjeet Gopalpuri stated that they have long been advocating for the regularization of temporary employees, but have seen no concrete action from the administration. In response to the lack of progress, they have intensified their demonstrations by blocking the university’s main gate.
Gopalpuri emphasized that the association has established a protest site near the main entrance and warned that if their demands are not addressed, they may resort to completely shutting down the university. Ongoing meetings are being held with association members to strategize further actions.
The protesting employees argue that their demands are legitimate, as many have been working in temporary roles for years. They have received multiple assurances regarding regularization, but progress has stalled.
In light of the situation, the university administration has increased security and urged staff to seek a peaceful resolution through dialogue. However, the employees maintain that they will continue their protest until they receive written assurances regarding their demands.
