Charanjit Singh Channi Exam Photo Sparks Controversy; Former Mayor Questions Panjab University

August 24, 2026

Chandigarh: A photograph showing former Punjab Chief Minister and Jalandhar MP Charanjit Singh Channi inside an examination hall at Panjab University has triggered controversy, with former Chandigarh mayor and Panjab University senator Davesh Moudgil seeking an inquiry into how the picture was taken and circulated.

Channi appeared for his final examination in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) programme at Panjab University on August 20. Reports said he wrote the examination alongside other students, while his security personnel remained outside the examination centre.

Former mayor seeks probe into exam photo

Moudgil has written to the Panjab University Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor, as well as the Punjab Chief Minister and Punjab Governor-cum-UT Administrator, seeking an investigation into the photograph.

He questioned how a photograph could be taken inside the examination hall when electronic devices are reportedly prohibited at examination centres. Moudgil has also sought preservation and examination of CCTV footage from the August 20 examination.

He demanded that the university examine whether examination rules were violated and whether any special permission was granted to Channi.

Questions raised over VIP treatment

Moudgil has called for uniform application of examination rules and said an unfair means case should be considered if any violation is established.

The controversy has also raised questions over whether the same rules were followed for Channi as for other students. The university’s response to the allegations was awaited.

Channi pursuing Public Administration degree

Channi, who is also a sitting Lok Sabha MP, has been pursuing a master’s degree in Public Administration at Panjab University. He reportedly skipped a Congress Working Committee meeting in New Delhi to appear for his examination.

The former Punjab Chief Minister already holds a PhD in political science from Panjab University and has indicated plans to pursue further academic work focused on public policy reforms.