Chandigarh, July 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has expressed concern over the reported exclusion of Sikh candidates from the ongoing selection process for the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University, calling for greater transparency and fairness in the exercise.
Senior SAD leader and former Punjab minister Maheshinder Singh Grewal said it was a matter of concern that not a single Sikh applicant had reportedly been invited for the interaction process despite the presence of several distinguished Sikh academicians and experienced university administrators among the applicants.
In a statement issued on Monday, Grewal said the interaction process, which commenced on July 3, had raised serious questions about inclusivity, equal opportunity and transparency in the appointment process.
He said the absence of Sikh candidates from the shortlisted applicants had created an unfortunate perception that deserving members of the community had been overlooked.
‘Accomplished Academicians Ignored’
Grewal pointed out that several serving and former vice-chancellors of reputed universities, along with eminent Sikh scholars possessing strong academic and administrative credentials, had applied for the post.
He said the exclusion of all Sikh applicants from the interaction stage warranted a clarification from the authorities regarding the criteria adopted for shortlisting candidates.
According to the SAD leader, the development had given rise to legitimate concerns over fairness in appointments to one of the country’s premier higher educational institutions.
‘Selection Must Be Merit-Based’
Emphasising Panjab University’s rich academic legacy, Grewal said the institution had earned national recognition for its excellence, diversity and inclusive character over the years.
He maintained that the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor should uphold these values and be based solely on merit.
He cautioned that any perception that candidates had been excluded on the basis of community could adversely affect the credibility of the selection process and undermine the University’s longstanding reputation for fairness and inclusiveness.
Grewal urged the authorities concerned to ensure that the Vice-Chancellor selection process remained transparent, objective and merit-driven so as to preserve public confidence in the institution and its governance.
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