Affidavit of Silence? Panjab University students protesting against new affidavit rules

November 3, 2025

Chandigarh: Late night at PU Punjab University, Chandigarh, slogans like Chandigarh Police Go Back and We Want Freedom were raised. Actually, Abhishek Dagar, a student of the University Institute of Legal Studies Department of Punjab University, has been sitting on a fast unto death for the last four days against the announcement of giving an affidavit issued by Chandigarh Police here. The police wanted to remove the said student leader from there and admit him to the hospital. During this, the students alleged that the police personnel were drunk and they misbehaved with them.

Political leaders, including Chandigarh MP Munish Tiwari and Fatehgarh Sahib MP Malvinder Singh Kang, have been visiting Panjab University to express solidarity with students opposing the recent administrative decisions. Former student leaders have also joined the demonstrations, calling the current policies “anti-student.”

Why the Controversy Began

In June 2025, the university administration introduced a controversial affidavit for new admissions. The document contained 11 strict conditions, including a ban on protests, sloganeering, and the use of posters—sparking immediate backlash from student unions and rights groups.

Students Say Their Rights Are Being Taken Away

Student organisations argue that the affidavit is a direct attack on their democratic right to dissent. Despite ongoing protests, the administration has neither withdrawn the affidavit nor initiated transparent dialogue, deepening the mistrust between students and officials.

Legal Challenge and Allegations Against the University

A petition was filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court challenging the affidavit’s legality. Students allege the university has maintained an “anti-student stance,” refusing to uphold democratic accountability and transparency.

Conditions Listed in the Affidavit

• No demonstrations in residential or academic areas.

• Sloganeering volume must not exceed the prescribed decibel level.

• Identity cards must be worn at all times.

• Carrying weapons or harmful objects is prohibited.

• Violators will be barred from campus entry or exams.

• Admission may be cancelled for repeated violations.

• No posters or stickers allowed on university property.

• Students must bear removal costs for any unauthorized postings.

• Driving and parking restrictions apply.

• Outsiders cannot be invited for demonstrations.

Campus Unrest Continues

All major student federations have announced continued protests until the affidavit is withdrawn. With national leaders and former student activists joining the movement, the situation at Panjab University remains tense and politically charged.