A Bill introduced by the Punjab government last year aimed at replacing the Governor as chancellor of state universities has hit a roadblock after it failed to get presidential approval.
The Punjab Universities Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which was passed by the state Assembly in June 2023, proposed replacing the Governor with the Chief Minister as the chancellor of 11 state-run varsities. However, the bill was recently returned by the President without giving his assent.
Key details:
- The bill was among three others that were reserved for the consideration of the President by the Governor in December 2023.
- It sought to amend laws governing various state universities and change the position of chancellor from Governor to CM.
- After months of deliberation, the bill has been sent back by the President, suggesting it will not be implemented in its current form.
- With the amendments not getting clearance, the Governor will continue serving as the chancellor of the 11 state universities.
- The development is seen as a setback for the Punjab government which has been at odds with the Governor over various issues.
- Two other bills reserved along with it are also awaiting a final decision from the President’s office.
The bill’s rejection indicates the ongoing friction between the state government and Raj Bhawan is likely to continue on the important issue of university administration and appointments. Only a suitable consensus between the two could help resolve such crucial matters smoothly.
