Chandigarh: Tension gripped Panjab University on Monday after Chandigarh Police resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse protesters gathered under the ongoing “PU Bachao Morcha” movement. The demonstration, held alongside the university’s Senate elections, spiraled into chaos as hundreds of students, farmers, and organization members marched towards Gate No. 1.
According to officials, despite repeated appeals from senior police personnel, including the SSP, the crowd refused to disperse. The situation escalated when protesters, including Nihang groups, broke through barricades and entered the campus, prompting the police to use force. Additional reinforcements were deployed as clashes spread to nearby areas.
In anticipation of unrest, Chandigarh Police had sealed major entry points to the city from Mohali, Zirakpur, and New Chandigarh early in the morning. Vehicle movement was restricted, leading to heavy traffic jams and inconvenience for commuters.
The Panjab University administration had already declared November 10 and 11 as holidays following overnight sit-ins by students and activists. Despite the announcement, hundreds gathered on campus, raising slogans like “Mithi dhun rabab di – Punjab University Punjab di,” vowing to protect the university’s autonomy and heritage.
Clashes between police and protesters continued well into the afternoon, with heightened security measures implemented across the university and adjoining areas. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further violence.
