Patiala, 17 June
The claims of Dr. Jagdeep Singh, the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of Punjabi University, Patiala, to make the university protest-free have proven hollow today as contract teachers resumed their agitation, which had been temporarily suspended a few days ago. It is noteworthy that contract assistant professors from various institutions of Punjabi University, including the main campus, constituent colleges, neighborhood campuses, and regional centers, have been protesting since April 22, 2025, under the banner of the Punjabi University Contract Teachers’ Association (PUCTA). They are demanding the implementation of UGC 2018 regulations and the release of the 7th Pay Commission benefits
watch…….https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM4900dxPaA
On June 5, the Vice-Chancellor held a special meeting and assured the teachers that the relevant regulations would soon be implemented. Based on this assurance, the contract teachers had postponed their protest. However, even after nearly two weeks, no meaningful action has been taken by the Vice-Chancellor, and the university administration’s attitude toward the issue has appeared completely irresponsible. It is worth mentioning that the university had sought guidance from the government through a letter regarding this matter, but the administration also attempted to stall the process by sending a separate letter. The contract teachers have termed this action by the university as a betrayal.
In response, the contract teachers have resumed their protest, upholding the university’s tradition of struggle. PUCTA leaders have made it clear that this time they will not be swayed by any tactics of the university administration and are prepared to fight relentlessly to secure their rights.
