Punjab CM Pushes for Electoral Control Over University Chancellor Appointments

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has advocated for the chancellor role in state-run universities to be held by elected chief ministers rather than appointed governors. This commentary emerged after the President returned a Punjab bill seeking to authorize this change, without giving her assent.

Mann criticized the current practice, stating that if the governor is unwilling to pass certain bills, they are sent to the President, resulting in months-long delays. Referring to similar legislative measures in West Bengal and Kerala, Mann emphasized the need for democratic rather than selected processes.

Mann plans to hold a meeting addressing the Punjab Universities Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2023. The Supreme Court had previously validated the legislative session during which the bill was passed, yet the governor had earlier labeled that session as illegal. The governor and Mann have clashed on multiple issues, including the appointment of university vice-chancellors.

(With inputs from agencies.)