Ludhiana, February 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The controversy surrounding Sehri and Iftar arrangements at CT University in Jagraon, Ludhiana, has been resolved after Vice-Chancellor Nitin Tandon stepped down amid allegations of misbehaviour toward Kashmiri Muslim students.
The issue began when a group of students from Jammu and Kashmir alleged that they were not provided Sehri (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (fast-breaking meal) arrangements in the university mess during the holy month of Ramzan. The students claimed that despite being regular fee-paying boarders, their request for providing Sehri and Iftar meals was not addressed.
According to some students, tensions escalated after several days of waiting for a response from the administration. In protest, they reportedly locked the mess area designated for Iftar service, though not the common mess used by other students. An argument allegedly followed between the students and university authorities.
Allegations Against Vice-Chancellor
Students accused the Vice-Chancellor of using inappropriate language during the confrontation and allegedly threatening cancellation of admissions and eviction from hostels. A video clip purportedly showing part of the exchange went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention and sparking public debate.
The matter subsequently drew the attention of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who ordered an inquiry and stated that he would discuss the issue with his Punjab counterpart to ensure the safety and dignity of J&K students studying outside the Union Territory.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti also raised the issue on social media, urging action against the university administration.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), led by National Convenor Nasir Khuehami, sought intervention from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The association described the students’ request as legitimate and called for an impartial and time-bound inquiry.
University’s Position
University officials maintained that Sehri and Iftar meals had been provided to students in previous years and that this year’s dispute arose due to additional requests. Dean of Students’ Welfare Prof. Davinder Singh stated that while regular food arrangements were being made, students had sought certain additions, which the university agreed to provide.
University Chairman and Chancellor Charanjit Singh Channi acknowledged that there was a heated exchange between the students and the Vice-Chancellor. He clarified that the Vice-Chancellor had been asked to resign in order to restore peace on campus and that his resignation had been accepted.
In an official statement, the university noted that certain remarks made during the discussions were later acknowledged as inappropriate. The Vice-Chancellor reportedly apologised before stepping down.
Administrative Intervention and Resolution
Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain confirmed that the district administration, in coordination with the Ludhiana Rural Senior Superintendent of Police and community leaders, including Shahi Imam Maulana Mohammad Usman Rahmani Ludhianvi, intervened to resolve the matter amicably.
The Deputy Commissioner stated that a thorough inquiry has been ordered into the incident. The students subsequently called off their protest after the Vice-Chancellor’s resignation and assurances of a fair probe.
Jagraon Sub-Divisional Magistrate Upinderjit Kaur Brar also sought a detailed report from the university to examine the sequence of events.
Protest Called Off, Campus Normalcy Restored
Following discussions and administrative assurances, the students withdrew their agitation. Mess operations resumed, and the university confirmed that the campus had returned to normal functioning.
Authorities emphasised that the matter has been resolved through dialogue and that steps are being taken to ensure inclusivity and sensitivity toward students observing religious practices.
The inquiry ordered by the district administration and the university’s internal review are expected to establish the complete facts surrounding the incident.
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