Controversy erupts at PU over Punjabi language, students smear nameplates with black ink

May 12, 2026

The controversy surrounding the Punjabi language has escalated at Punjab University. The student organization, Satth, protested against the university administration on Monday, smearing new nameplates with black ink on campus. Students allege that many of the new nameplates do not include the Punjabi language.

Action taken after two-day ultimatum expires

According to the student organization, a memorandum was submitted to the administration on May 7th demanding that Punjabi be displayed first on all nameplates. The administration was given two days to comply. The organization claims that no action was taken even after the stipulated time, leading to the protests.

Says Punjabi will not be ignored

The protesting students stated that the neglect of the Punjabi language will not be tolerated in a university founded on the land of Punjab. They say that nameplates should be installed in three languages, but Punjabi must be prioritized.

Warning to intensify agitation

Student leaders alleged that the Punjabi language is being consistently marginalized. The protesting students warned that if a solution is not found soon, they will intensify their agitation. At present, there has been no official statement from the university administration on this matter.