Harjot Bains Slams PU's Mandatory Affidavit as 'Dictatorial', Demands Immediate Review
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, July 8, 2025 –
Punjab Higher Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has strongly criticised Panjab University’s decision to mandate an affidavit/undertaking for fresh admissions in the 2025–26 academic session, calling it "dictatorial and arbitrary". In a letter addressed to the university's Vice Chancellor, Bains has sought immediate reconsideration of the move, raising serious concerns over its legality and impact on democratic values within campus life.
As an ex-officio Senate member of Panjab University, Bains questioned whether due procedure was followed in framing the affidavit conditions and if the decision was formally approved by either the Senate or Syndicate. “This action appears to have been taken without proper deliberation,” he noted.
The Minister highlighted widespread student outrage over the affidavit, which reportedly includes controversial clauses such as the need for prior permission to hold protests, limiting protest sites, and the use of vague terms like “outsider,” “stranger,” and “ugly.” He said that these clauses are not only ambiguous but also violate ethical standards and human dignity.
More critically, Bains pointed out that provisions allowing for cancellation of admissions and campus bans without notice or an opportunity to appeal run counter to the principles of natural justice and due process of law.
“Panjab University has a proud legacy as a cradle of leadership and academic excellence. This affidavit threatens to stifle student activism and undermine the university’s democratic ethos by infringing on the fundamental right to freedom of speech under Article 19 of the Constitution,” he wrote.
Urging the Vice Chancellor to reconsider the affidavit immediately, Bains called for a comprehensive review of the conditions imposed, ensuring that they are consistent with students’ constitutional rights and the university’s tradition of intellectual openness and critical thought.
He added that as Higher Education Minister, he remains committed to protecting students’ rights and upholding the democratic framework within institutions of higher learning.