Chandigarh: In a major development for higher education in Punjab, the Supreme Court has permitted the state government to allow 1,158 assistant professors and librarians to continue working in government colleges until fresh recruitment is completed.
The decision comes as a relief for thousands of students across Punjab, ensuring that their academic sessions are not disrupted due to uncertainty over staffing. Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said the ruling will provide much-needed stability in the functioning of government colleges at a crucial time.
“This decision safeguards the continuity of education for our students,” the minister noted. “The government is committed to protecting these appointments and is preparing to file a review petition to secure the recruitment on a permanent basis. We will present the strongest possible case before the court.”
The recruitment process for assistant professors and librarians has been the subject of litigation for several months, raising concerns among students, faculty, and parents about the possible impact on teaching schedules. With the latest order, the Punjab government has received temporary relief while it works on a legal strategy to defend the appointments.
The Higher Education Department has assured that academic activities in colleges will continue as scheduled, with no disruption to classes or examinations.
