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Panjab University, Chandigarh, Chandigarh

Panjab University, Chandigarh, Chandigarh

Address:Sector 14
Chandigarh (District Chandigarh)
Chandigarh, India

Pin Code : 160014

Panjab University, Chandigarh is a University recognised by UGC.
Panjab University, Chandigarh is situated in Chandigarh of Chandigarh state (Province) in India. This data has been provided by www.punjabcolleges.com. Chandigarh comes under Chandigarh Tehsil, Chandigarh District.

Fax # of Panjab University, Chandigarh is +91-172-2541022, 2783335.

Contact Person(s) of the Panjab University, Chandigarh is (are): Prof Madhu Raka, DUI.

Mobile No(s) of concerned persons at Panjab University, Chandigarh are +91-98100-99006, 96027-77029, 098280-18005.

email ID(s) is Panjab University Chandigarh Chandigarh

Website of Panjab University, Chandigarh is http://puchd.ac.in.

Vice Chancellor : RC Sobti +91-172-2541945, 01882-236618, now Dr Arun Grover.

Contact Details of Panjab University, Chandigarh are : +91-172-2784156, 2534367, 2534380
Prof Rajan Gaur
Controller Exams: Dr Parvinder Singh
Senate Member: Dr RPS Josh

Registrar: Registrar (He is also having additional charge of Controller of Exams) Telephone: +91-172-2541716.

Prof Sukhdev Singh Hundal, Senator Panjab University and President PCCTU
Ajaib Singh, Chairman, Joint admission Committee, M.Ed. 2010-11
Dean, Alumni Relations 0172-2541881, 2534575

Centre for IAS and other competitive examinations
Old Correspondence Courses Building
Behind SBI, Sector 14, Chandigarh
Honorary Director Prof Rajan Gaur
0172-2784156, 2534367, 2534380
Dr Mohd Khalid, PUTA President and Fee Committee Member

Punjab University, DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION CHANDIGARH was established on / in 2005. It runs B.P.Ed. courses with 50 seats. Telephone: +91-172-541438, 534609. Fax # 0172-2544081. email id puphysical@rediffmail.com

Punjab University, Department of Law Chandigarh was established on / in 1947. It runs LLB course. Phone 2541577, 2534161

Courses offered in Panjab University, Chandigarh

BA., B. Ed., BBA, B.Com

B.Pharma course (run by Punjab University Department Of Pharmaceutical Science CHANDIGARH)

Profile of Panjab University

The University has been incorporated for the purposes, among others, of making provision for imparting education in Arts, Letters, Science and the learned professions and of furthering advancement of learning,the prosecution of original research, with power to appoint University Professors, Readers and Lecturers, to hold and manage educational endowments,to erect, equiv and maintain University colleges, libraries, laboratories and museums, to make regulations relating to the residence and conduct ofstudents and to do all such acts as tend to promote study and research .

Panjab University Act, P. U. Cal. Vol 1, Page 3.As an Institution which has gone through the vicissitudes of time, thePanjab University has demonstrated its resilience, durability, utility and acceptability as a unique institution of higher education. Retaining thetime honored and valued subjects of study, it has simultaneously started programmes in emerging areas and provided infrastructure of a substantialnature to provide quality education. NAAC Peer Team Report, 2001.Panjab University has a long tradition of pursuing excellence in teaching and research in science and technology, humanities, social sciences,performing arts and sports. For more than a century, it has served various societal needs with distinction. The glorious traditions of the University,established during the period of more than 120 years of its long service to the nation, since its inception in 1882 at Lahore (now in Pakistan), are asource of inspiration for the present generations of the faculty and students to achieve and continue to excel in their academic endeavours. By virtueof its age, experience, achievements and philosophy, the Panjab University is a University of national character and stature, in so far as it hasdrawn both its faculty and students from all over the country. Its faculty includes some of the most distinguished scientists and academics in artsand humanities. The University continues to attract celebrated scholars from abroad to visit and interact with the faculty and students.After the partition in 1947, the University was constrained to function for almost a decade without having a campus of its own. The administrativeoffice was located at Solan and the teaching departments functioned from Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Delhi and Amritsar. It was in 1956 that the Universitywas relocated at Chandigarh. Its red sand stone campus, designed by renowned French architects, came up with in a few years. The University campus wasdesigned by Pierre Jeanerette under the general guidance of the legendary Le Corbusier. Till the re-organisation of Punjab in 1966, the University hadits regional centres at Rohtak, Shimla, Jalandhar and its affiliated colleges in what is presently Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and U.T. ofChandigarh.With the re-organisation of Punjab, the University became an Inter-State Body Corporate catering to the newly organised states of Haryana, HimachalPradesh, Punjab and U.T. of Chandigarh. Gradually, the colleges of Himachal and Haryana were affiliated to the universities in the respective statesand the Panjab University was left with the affiliated colleges in U.T. of Chandigarh and some parts of Punjab. Presently, the U.T. administration ofChandigarh and the state Govt. of Punjab share the maintenance deficit of the University in the ratio of 60:40, respectively. The annual budgetestimates of the University amount to Rs.124.57 crores for 2005-2006.Panjab University, with its 46 teaching and research departments besides 10 Centres/Chairs for teaching and research on the main campus located atChandigarh, has 121 affiliated colleges spread over Punjab and Chandigarh, a Regional Centre at Muktsar, an extension library at Ludhiana andVVBISandamp;IS (Vishweshavaranand Vishva Bandhu Institute of Sanskrit and Indological Studies) at Hoshiarpur.The main campus at Chandigarh is spread over 550 acres in sectors 14 and 25, the sector 14 having the main academic and administrative buildings,besides a health centre, a sports complex, hostels and residential area. The University campus is essentially a residential campus. Mainly studentshail from the neighbouring states of Haryana, Himachal, Jammu andamp; Kashmir besides Punjab and Chandigarh. Presence of a good number of students fromrest of the country provides a national character to the University. The campus acquires an international colour as many students from the SAARCcountries, the Middle East, Africa and South and South East Asia also seek admission to various courses.The Central A.C. Joshi Library of Panjab University has a holding of over 6 lac books and 1.5 lac periodicals some of which are rare collections of19th century. The University Library has been recognised as one of the six national centres for data-information-distribution in the UGCs INFLIBNETprogramme. Besides, the National Board of Higher Education in Mathematics provides special support for the library of mathematics department.The Indian Council of Social Science Research has set-up its North-Western Regional Centre on the Panjab University Campus. The Centre runs a library,a seminar complex and a guest house for the visiting scholar under its study-grants programme.The Gandhi Bhawan on the university campus attracts scholar as well as tourists from all over the world for its wonderful architectural form, itslibrary and auditorium.The Panjab University has four museums and the department of Indian theatre has its own theatre lab which is unique in the country. The university hasa Botanical Garden and a Garden of Medicinal Plants on the campus.The office of the Panjab University Students Council is located in the Student Centre. The student centre is the hub of students activities academic,cultural, social and political. The Students Council consists of the departmental representatives and other office bearers i.e. President,Vice-President, Secretary and Joint-Secretary directly elected by the students from the various teaching departments on the campus. The Dean StudentWelfare is ex-officio Chairman of the Council. The Students Council organises youth festivals, both national and international, academic debates,literary and cultural events, educational and excursion tours for the students.Recognizing the excellence in teaching and research, the UGC and more recently DST, have recognized a large number of departments under variousProgrammes such as SAP/DRS, COSIST, CAS and FIST, respectively. The departments covered under various UGC and DST programmes are :SAP : Anthropology, Botany, University Business School, Education, Geography,Geology, Political Science (Geo-Politics), University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Philosophy, Statistics, Sociology and Zoology.COSIST: Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Physics, Zoology.CAS: Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, PhysicsFIST: Botany, Chemistry, Mathematics, Microbiology, University Centre of Instrumentation andamp; Microelectronics, Statistics.Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Biophysics are under active consideration.Recently the University has been selected by the UGC as the University with Potential for Excellence in Bio-Medical Sciences. Initial Grant ofRs. 5 crore has been released by the UGC under the scheme.Earlier the University has been identified as one of the six centres in the country for super-computer facilities to serve the entire north-westernregion. The University has also been identified as a Special Centre by Technology Information Forecasting and Assessment Council(TIFAC), DST, Govt. ofIndia. The university can pride in having been able to provide Internet connection for 400 terminals for the use of faculty members and students and aprovision of EPBAX, Inter-com connections to all the faculty members in the teaching departments. The University also has a DST supported RegionalSophisticated Instrumentation Centre along with Central Instrumentation Laboratory (CIL) and University Science Instrumentation Centre (USIC) to servethe scientific community on the campus and in the region. The Centre for Industry Institute Partnership Programme (CIIPP) has been active in promotingformal and effective academic-industry interface. The University has progressive and liberal consultancy rules to encourage consultancy and contractresearch amongst its faculty members.The University has a coaching centre for training for IAS examination and allied services and other competitive examinations. The ministry of SocialWelfare, Govt. of India has sanctioned a grant of Rs. 4.1 lacs for the Coaching Centre to provide training to the SC/ST candidates.The University has excellent playgrounds, a gymnasium and a swimming pool of international standard for its sports activities.During the last five years, the University started the process of networking of the campus and completed it successfully. Having been identified bythe DST as one of the six centres in the country, the University has set up super-computing facilities to meet the needs of the laboratories andindustry in the north-west India.Energy Research Centre was established in 1983 at Panjab University to promote Randamp;D and Extension activities in the emerging field sof RenewableEnergy. It has emerged as a major focal point of Randamp;D and extension on energy and environment at national and international level. Pioneering workin the area of Solar thermal energy Storage, Solar Detoxification, Biomethanation of agricultural/industrial/forest wastes, Biomass combustion andgasification, Indoor Air Quality, Energy and Environmental Conservation and Management and Hydrodynamics of Polymeric Solutions is being carried outat the Centre. Energy Research Centre has professional contacts with a number of reputed International Institutes such as University of Florida, USA,University of Cincinnati, USA, SRI International USA, and Lakehead University Canada etc. A number of students from developing and developed countrieshave undergone training in the area of energy and environment at the Centre. The faculty of the center has won a number of International Fellowshipsand the national awards for their pioneering work. Centre has also helped the states of Haryana, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, U.T. Chandigarh, Jandamp;KState, and North Eastern states in solving problems associated with energy planning andamp; management and Environmental protection.The University was also chosen for participating in the project, International Collaboration for Research for north particles and the large HodronCollider (LHC) CERN, Geneven CMS Experiment with a Government of India grant of Rs. 2.49 Crores. A large number of faculty members were sanctionedMajor Research Projects by the UGC and other agencies.The University has an International Exchange Programme with Sweden under the auspices of European Law Students Association (ELSA), an ExchangeProgramme with the British Council in the field of Public Administration. The University also has International Exchange Programme with theuniversities of Manotoba and Kyrghyzstan.The University received a substantial donation of Rs. 1.75 Crores for construction of Aruna Ranjit Chandra Hall from Dr. R. Chandra, an alumni of theUniversity.The University has been doing its best to restructure its existing courses, start new courses, undertake research projects and initiate new policiesto meet the new challenges emerging from rapidly changing technological, socio-economic and educational environment. The University has introduced 35new courses in emerging areas and vocational studies during the last few years. These include courses such as M. Tech. in Micro-Electronics, Master sin Business Economics, Masters in E-Commerce, Honours School in Computer Science on the Campus and B.B.A. and B.C.A. in the affiliated colleges.The UGC has given a grant of Rs. 1 Crore to start academic programmes and research activities in Genomic Studies and M.Sc. (Human Genomics) has beenstarted from the academic year 2002. The University has set up the University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET) from the academic session2002-2003. The UGC has also selected the University for setting up an Inter-disciplinary Centre for Vivekananda Studies with a special grant for thecoming five years.The University has completed the academic and administrative audit of its 55 teaching departments during March-April 2001 and submitted the auditreport to the UGC. The University has also completed the process of academic audit of its affiliated colleges and submitted the interim report to theUGC.Information Bureau:The University Employment Information andamp; Guidance Bureau providesemployment information and advice to univ alumni. There is also a unit of information and Advisory Bureau which guides students in regard to theirstudies abroad.Halls of Residence:
7hostels for 2,000 men students and five womens hostels accommodating 1500 students.Health Services:The university has on the campus a health centre. It has six fulltime Medical Officers comprising of General Practioners; a medical specialist, a surgeon, a dentist and an Ayurvedic Physician. Besides these thereare four part time specialists in the areas of Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Opthalmology and radiology andamp; three part time General Practioners.The University proposes to bring co-ordination and greater interaction among the faculty members and students of various departments by bringing themunder the ambit of three schools, i.e. School of Natural Sciences, School of Applied Sciences andamp; Technology, School of Humanities, Social Sciencesand Performing Arts. These schools will provide facilities for close interaction between all sciences as well as humanities, social sciences andperforming arts. The University plans to further strengthen existing research areas and embark an other challenging areas through multidisciplinaryapproaches for optimal and effective utilization of already available human and material resources.

Vice-Chancellor
Name : Dr. Ranbir Chander Sobti
Present Position : Vice Chancellor & Professor, Department of Biotechnology Panjab University, Chandigarh-160 014

Address : Panjab University
Chandigarh

Phone : 0172-2541945 (O), 2541523 (R)

Fax : 0172-2541022

Email : rcsobti@pu.ac.in ; vc@pu.ac.in

Biographical information
Dr. Sobti has made pioneering basic contributions in cytogenetics and molecular genetics by characterizing various animal groups and the normal and diseased humans. His studies have shown chromosomal basis of identification of closely related species of various groups of animals particularly insects. He has made notable observations with respect to structural activity relationship profiles of a large number of suspect compounds and antimutagens, besides identifying human populations exposed to genotoxic chemical at place of their work. His studies have revealed that phosphatidic acid regulates mevalonate pathway. His recent notable observation is with respect to microbial biotransformation of ferurlic acid to vanillin, which has tremendous applications in food and beverage industries. He identified certain chromosomal markers helpful in the prognosis of CML, CLL and also aneamia. Dr. Sobti has been actively involved in cancer biology and has been focusing on finding out novel tumor markers for cancer detection. Dr. Sobti has also made excellent contributions in finding out relationship of various polymorphic forms of metabolic, DNA repair, cell cycle and immunomodulatory genes to know the comprehensive multiple gene based genotypes associated with the risk of upper aerodigestive tract, lung, bladder, cervix and prostate cancers in North Indian population. Polymorphisms in CYP1A1 (msp1, ile/val, pst1) and GSTM1 do not show any association with upper aerodigestive tract (UAT) cancer. However, an increased risk towards UAT cancer has been observed in bidi smokers having GSTM1 or GSTT1 null genotypes.

Most of the observations have been made for the first time some of which are new to the field as such and others on Indian population and the data are quite different from that wherever reported for other populations of the world. Polymorphism in CYP1A1 (msp1, ile/val, pst1) and GSTM1 do not show any association with upper aerodigestive tract (UAT) cancer. However, an increased risk towards UAT has been observed in bidi smokers having GSTM1 or GSTT1 null genotypes. The risk of oesophageal cancer increased with combined CYP1A1 (*1/*2A) and CYP2D6 (EM) genotypes. Same is the case with GSTT1 null and GSTP1 (exon 5 and 6) polymorphism genes. New mutations have been reported in p53 gene in North Indian population.

These include insertion of T in exon 6 at 13256 and that of A at 14376 in exon8. CYP1A2, SULT1A1, NAT2 and XRCC1 polymorphisms in relation to lung cancer in North Indian population have been studied for the first time. NAT2 (*5/wt/*5/*5) genotype in combination with other genotypes of CYP2D6 (EM/HEM) and p53 has shown elevated risk for lung cancer. The risk is further increased in case of smokers. An associative interaction between ERCC2 and CCDN1 genetic polymorphism for risk of lung cancer has also been reported for the first time. The GSTT1 null and CYP2D6 (HEM) alleles increase the risk of bladder cancer. The number of mutations in p53 gene has been found to be more in patients with combined genotypes of CYP2D6 (HEM), GSTM1 null and GSTT1 null alleles. This has been reported first time in India. There is no other report in the world rgarding the detection of single nucleotide polymorphism of the genes LIG1 (exon 6, A ï¿½ C), APE1 (ASP 148 Glu) IL-1b (-31, Cï¿½ T), IFN g (+874 A/A), IL 18 (-137, C/C) and NBS (-185 Gln/Gln) in patients with bladder cancer.

There is no other report about the expression of IL13, IFNg and IL18 for mRNA and protein levels as well as microsatellite of IFN-g in patients with bladder cancer. IL4 (70 bp repeat in VNTR in intron 3) gene polymorphism has also been detected for the first time in bladder cancer patients from India. The report regarding hypermethylation status of RB1, DAPK and CASP-8 in bladder cancer of Indian population is also new to literature. Polymorphisms in NBS1 (Glul/Glu*gln/gln), IL4, IL6, IL10, FAS and TAB a risk of cervix cancer in Indian population have been reported for the first time. Of these +874 of IFN g and TAP genotype has shown an increased risk for cervix cancer.

On the other hand APE1 148 ASP/Glu polymorphism decreased the risk of cervix cancer. The expression of IL18, IFNg genes and hypermethylation of p14 and p16 genes have not shown any difference in cervix carcinoma patients and healthy controls in North Indian population. The mutant genotype (A2/A2) of cyp17 significantly increased the risk of prostate cancer. CYP1B1 (leu/leu) genotype combined with PR (A2/A2 or A1/A2) is associated with the risk of prostate cancer. mEH 3 and mutant genotype of ER (+/-/-/-) and CYP17 (A1/A2/A2/A2) and HPC/ELAC2 (Leu/Leu) have also shown an increased risk of prostate cancer in the Indian population for the first time.

The role of TA repeats (TA 9/9) and PSA (G/G) genotype in the prostate cancer development has also been reported the first time. He has also detected the risk and protective genotype of COPD as well as CHD. Most of these observations have also made for the first time. These and other observations on animal molecular genetics/biology, human cytogenetics, environmental carcinogenesis have been published in international journals (Cancer Genetics and Cytogeneteics, Cell and Molecular Biochemistry, Mutation Research, Oncology Research Anticancer Research, Biomarker etc.). It is for the first time that certain mitochondrial gene sequences of termites and bruchids from India were submitted to gene bank and the Accession numbers for them have been obtained. Dr. Sobti has published more than 180 research papers and 40 students have obtained Ph.D degree under his direct supervision. He is a Fellow of The National Academy of Sciences, India, National Academy of Medical Sciences and International Union Against Cancer, Geneva.

*The claim of first time observations at International/National /North India level were verified from the internet when the observations were made.

Health Services
The University Health Centre offers a variety of consultancy, clinical and emergency services. In addition to five full time doctors, including one medical specialist, one surgical specialist and one dental specialist, there are several part-time consultants - a gynecologist, a pediatrician, a Radiologist, an eye specialist. An Ayurvedic doctor and two general physicians. They are supported by a large paramedical staff. Beside regular consultancy, medicines and emergency attention employees and students have access to facilities like the clinical tests, ECG, X-Ray, Ultrasonic treatment, diathermy and Yoga. The Centre also runs a Family Welfare Clinic with facilities of family planning, vaccination and immunization of children (DPT, Polio and BCG). From time to time the Health Centre launches health awareness drives through lectures, film shows and workshops.

Introduction
Punjab University is long credited with setting standards for brilliance in teaching and research and in science and technology, humanities, social sciences, performing arts and sports. Its glorious past is an inspiration to the faculties and students to excel in their academic activities and achieve brilliant results. The University was established as the University of Punjab in Lahore (now in Pakistan) in 1882. After the partition of the country, Lahore became a part of the newly formed state of Pakistan and a separate university with the name of Punjab University was established in 1956.

Punjab University, over the days, has come to be highly regarded as a respected institution of higher education in the country. While it has continued to focus on the traditional subjects, the vicissitudes of time has seen the university also starting programmes in the emerging fields. In fact, the university has made a number of efforts to ensure a proper infrastructure that supports quality education.

The Punjab University has rightly emerged as a University of national character and stature. The university has attracted a wide number of faculties and students from across the India, and continues to host distinguished scholars from abroad regularly. Students from the SAARC countries, the Middle East, Africa and South and South East Asia also have a considerable presence in the campus. The University has some 122 affiliated colleges that are spread over Punjab and Chandigarh. Recently, the university was selected as the 'University with Potential for Excellence in Bio-Medical Sciences" by the UGC.

Faculties
Faculties at Punjab University
* Arts
* Business and Management Commerce
* Dairying, Animal Husbandry and Agriculture
* Design and Fine Arts
* Education
* Engineering and Technology
* Languages
* Law
* Pharmaceutical Science
* Medical Science
* Science

History
Panjab University was established in 1882, at Lahore (now in Pakistan). After the partition in 1947, Panjab University functioned for almost a decade without a campus of its own. The administrative office of Panjab university was located at Solan and the teaching departments functioned from Delhi , Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar and Amritsar. The university was relocated at Chandigarh in 1956.

Panjab University is a residential cum affiliating university in the city of Chandigarh. It is among the most prestigious and oldest universities in India. Spread over an area of 550 acres in sectors 14 and 25 of the city, it has an array of teaching and research departments. It has more than 150 affiliated colleges/institutes spread over Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh. Regional Centers of the university are located at Muktsar, Ludhiana, and Hoshiarpur.

Educational Streams
Panjab University conducts a wide range of courses in a variety of disciplines. The university has set up a separate faculty for Dairy, Animal Husbandry and Agriculture. Several courses are imparted under the evening studies program, keeping in view the needs of the people engaged in jobs. Giving due importance to local aspirations, the university also imparts course on Sikh Studies.

Quality business education is imparted in Panjab University Business School. The school has collaboration with the industry to translate the mission into action. Centre for Women's Studies and Development conducts specialized courses for women. Centre for Environment and Vocational Studies conducts courses on Environment Science and Solid Waste Management.

A separate department has been set for adult and continuing education. Centres on Defence Studies and Energy Research conduct postgraduate and research programs in their respective fields. University School of Open Learning conducts correspondence courses for the students.

Facilities
AC Joshi Library of the Punjab university has a collection of approximate 7 lakh books. It is open on all week days and all its operations are computerized. Online journals and reference sources are also available in the library. As a residential university, it has several hostels equipped with all amenities for the students.

Faculties/Departments
Arts
* Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archeology
* Economics
* Gandhian Studies
* Geography
* Guru Nanak Sikh Studies
* History
* Library and Information Science
* Mass Communication
* Philosophy
* Political Science
* Psychology
* Public Administration
* Sociology
* Statistics
* Population Res. Center

Business and Management Commerce
* University Business School
* University Institute of Applied Management Sciences

Dairying, Animal Husbandry and Agriculture

Design and Fine Arts
* Fine Arts
* Indian Theater
* Music

Education
* Education
* Physical Education

Engineering and Technology
* Chandugarh College of Engineering & Technology
* Department of Chemical Engineering and Technology
* University Institute of Engineering and Technology
* RSIC/SAIF/USIC/UCIM/CIL
* Swami Saravanand Giri Panjab University Regional Centre

Languages
* Chinese and Tibetan Languages
* Dayanand Chair for Vedic Studies
* Guru Ravidas Chair for Sant Sahitya Studies
* English
* Hindi
* German
* French
* Russian
* Punjabi Studies
* Urdu
* Sanskrit

Law
* University Institute of Legal Studies
* Department of Laws

Pharmaceutical Science

Medical Science

Science
* Anthropology
* Biochemistry
* Biophysics
* Biotechnology
* Botany
* Center for Environment and Vocational Studies
* Chemistry
* Computer Science and Applications
* Geology
* National Center for Human Genome Studies and Research
* Mathematics
* Microbiology
* Physics
* Statistics
* Zoology

Evening Studies
University School of Open Learning (formerly Dept. of Correspondence Studies)

Other departments
* Regional Center
* Center for Adult, Continuing Education & Extension
* IAS and Other Competitive Examinations
* Defence and National Security Studies
* Women's Studies and Development
* Energy Research Center
* Population Research Center
* Center for Swami Vivekananda Studies

About University
One of the oldest universities in India established in 1882 at Lahore (Pakistan). University was relocated to Chandigarh in 1956. Before 1966 the university had its regional centres at Rohtak, Shimla, Jalandhar.

University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET), University Institute of Legal Studies and Swami Sarvanand Giri PU regional Center at Hoshiarpur for Engineering courses has been started by the university from 2003-03, 2004-05 and 2006-07 respectively.

The university has introduced various courses focused on emerging areas of study such as M. Tech. in Microelectronics, Nano Technology and nano science, Master's in Business Economics, Master's in E-Commerce, Honours School in Computer Science on the Campus and B.B.A. and B.C.A.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently granted Rs. 5 crore as the university has recently been selected by the UGC as the "University with Potential for Excellence in Bio-Medical Sciences.

Department of Education, Panjab
STD Code : 0172 Telephone No : 2534601
Fax No : 0172-2534601
Website : www.puchd.ac.in
e-Mail : education@pu.ac.in
Name of Society/Trust : Panjab University
Address of the Society/Trust : Sector 14, Chandigarh
Year of Establishment : 1963

Date of Submission : 25/08/2010, Wednesday 1:04 PM
Teacher Education Institution Registration Details
Reference ID : NCHCHDIN-2777
TAN. No : PTLP12829F

NACC Accredited : Yes
--NCTE NACC Grade : A*****
--Year of NACC Accredation : 2001
Minority : No
--Minorty Type : NA
--Religion : NA
--Language : NA
Location college/institution : Urban
Located in : institusional
Building Type : Its own campus
Total Area(Sq.Mts.) : 133586
Total Built up Area(Sq.Mts.) : 101325
Nature of land holding : Lease
Type of Land(Lease) : Private
Construction completed Date : 11/11/1962
Shared Campus Area : 888
Campus shared by : By Resolution
Khasra No./Plot No./Survey No. : NIL
Revenue Village of the land : NIL
Land is free from all encumbrances ? : Yes
Type of college/institution : Co-education college
Management of the college/institution : NA
Management of college/Institute :
Self Financed Course in University
Department/Contitutent Collage
Institution or its Managing society/body registered ? : Yes
Registration Act : Panjab University Act VII of 1947
No. of Non Teaching Staff(Male) : 7
No. of Non Teaching Staff(Female) : 6
No. of Non Teaching Staff(Total) : 13
Area of Reading Room(Sq.Mts.) : 3391
Seating Capacity : 580
Titles of Teacher Education(Library) : 5000
Books of Teacher Education : 12931
No.of Journals : 121
No of Encyclopedias(Library) : 40
Area of Lab : 594
No of Computers : 15
Internet Access ? : Yes
LAN : Yes
Availability of LCD Projector : Yes
Availability of OHP : Yes
Availability of TV : Yes
Availability of VCR : Yes
S.No. Name of the Test
Author
1. Multi Dimensional A 30152ssessment of personality form
2. Multi Dimensional Assessment of Personality (c)
3. Eysenckâ€™s Moudsely Personality Inventory (Eng. Version) H.J Eysenck.
4. Deo Mohanâ€™s Achievement Motivation scale (Eng. Version) Prabha Deo/Asha Mahan
5. Moral Judgment Scale Durganand sinha
6.Raoâ€™s Social Maturity Scale Nalini Ra
7. Style of l earning and thinking Vankata Raman8. Adjustment I
nventory for college students A.K.P Sinha
9. Adjustment Inventory for school student A.K.P Sinha1993
10. Teacher Adjustment Inventory (TAI) S.K. Mangal
11. Guidance needs Inventory J.S Grewal
12. Family Environment Scale Sanjay Vohra
13. P.G.I Health Questionnaire S.K. Verma/N.N Wig
14. Teaching Aptitude Scale (TAS) Psy- Com
15. The Group test of Intelligence Mrs. Pramila Ahuja
16. Job Satisfaction Scale Amar Singh/T.R. Sharma
17. Global Adjustment Scale (only manual) Adult Form Psycom
18. Global Adjustment Scale (only manual) Adult Form Psycom
19. Hand Book for M.A.P (only manual) Multi Dimensional Assessment of personality
20. Multi Dimensional Assessment form (only manual)
21. Levenâ€™s Locus of Control Scale and Indian Levenâ€™s/J.Bharatraj
Adaptation (only manual)
22. Vine land social maturity Scale A.J Malin
23. Comprehensive Interest Schedule Sanjay Vohra
24. High School Personality Questionnaire complete set (H.S.P) Eng Version
25. Children Personality Questionnaire C.P.Q IPAT
26. Early School Personality Ques. E.S.P.Q IPAT
27. Eysenckâ€™s Maudsely personality inventory M.P.I Eysenckâ€™s Hindi Version
28. Jalotaâ€™s Ability Test Hindi Version Jalota
29. Teaching aptitude test Hindi Version Jai Parkash Srivastava
30. Socio Economic Status Scale Hindi Version Kapoorâ€™s
31. Socio Economic Status Scale Hindi Version R.N. Singla
32. Chatterjiâ€™s Non Language Preference Chatterji Record (NIPR)
33. Scientific knowledge and Aptitude test Chatterji/Manjula
34. The Bohemtest of Basic concept Ann/Bohem
35. Ravenâ€™s Colured Progressive Matrics Ravenâ€™s36. Standard Progressive Matrics Ravenâ€™s
37. Weclsterâ€™s Adult performance intellilgence Prabha Rama lingasw
Prof. Asha Sethi38. Bender Gestoft test with design cards Lauretta Bender Manual of instructions, research
39. Anxiety Inventory Set 1 Charles Spielberge
40. State Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y Charles Spielberge
41. State Trait Anxiety Inventory for children
42. Way of coping questionnaire
43. Mashacl Burnout Inventory
44. Diagonostic Spelling test NFER-NELSON45. Sentence Completion List Floyds Irvin46. Creativity Attitu de Suvey Charles Scheefer
47. How well do you know your interest John.H.Coleman
48. Group Intelligence test (manual) Prayag Mehta
49. Ravenâ€™s standard progressive matrics Ravenâ€™s50. Careerâ€™s Decision Sc ale Introductory kit Samuel
51. Wechlerâ€™s Adult performance Scale Prabha Ramalinga
52. The Autistic Contum anassessment and Intervention schedule Mareen Aarons53. Development Screening test Bharat Raj54. Socio Economic status scale Gyanendra Srivastva
55. Eysenkâ€™s personality questionnaire S.Gakhar Eysenkâ€™s
56. Eysenkâ€™s Madusley personality inventory (manual only H.J Eysenkâ€™s
57. Scale for introversion Extaversion Dimension Psy.Com
58. Scale Traint Anxity test Psy. Com59. Si nhaâ€™s comprehensive anxity test(Eng.) A.K.P Sinha/L.N.K Sinha
60. Study Habit Inventory M.Mukhopadhayay61. Cri tâ€™s career maturity 450F Nirmal Gupta
62. Parent child re lationship inventory Nalini Raoâ€™s
63. Occupational stress index A.K Srivastava64. Work Motivation Questionnaire K.G.Aggarwal65. Davidâ€™s Batt ery of differential Alb Mahay Kapoor
66. Problem solving ability test(Box) Hanfman
67 Draw a man test Pramila
68. Bhatiaâ€™s Battery of intelligence (Box) Bhatia69. Alexander Pass long test (4Boxes)
70. Kohâ€™s Block Design test
71. Word association (purchased by) Asha Monan Sethi
72. Parent child relationship Nalini Rao
73. Occupational stress inventory Samual H. Osipow74. AH 1,2,3,4
,5,6 question Book A.W Heim
75. Measure of Guidance impart V.Simmonds76. AH2 and Y Group of general reasoning
77. AH5 Group test of General Intelligence
80. AH6 Group test of High Level intelligence
81. AH4 Group test of High Level intelligence.
82. Levensonâ€™s Locus of Control scale
83. P.G.I Memory scale
84. Global Adjustment scale (student form)
85. Levenâ€™s Locus of control Sanjay Vohra
86. V ineland social maturity scale A.J Malin
87. Hand book M.A.P Multi Dimensional form Psy.com88. Hand Book M.A.P Psy.com
89. Comprehensive interestschedule Sanjay Vohra
90. Group list of intelligence 13-17 G.C Ahuja
91. Embedded figure test
92. Locus of control
93. The general ability test occupational 1988 Edu.
94. Multi Dimensional self
esteem inventory 1983,87,88
95. Anxiety inventory attitude in preliminary
96. Emotional problem scale 1989-91
97. Way coping questionnaire 1988
98. Carrere attitude straoger inventory 1992,93,94 John.H Halland
99. Psycho-Physiological state inventory 1990
100. Global adjustment scale 1994 (student firn) Psy.com
101. Sodhiâ€™s attitude scale 1990
102. Personal values questionnaire 1971 R.P Sharma/G.P Sherry
103. D.S.T development screening test 1988
104. Emotional stability questionnaire 1995
105. Style of learning and thinking 1994
106. Draw a man test for Indian children 1987
107. Work Motivation questionnaire 1988
108. Cognitive ability test level A TO F 1988
109. Medico psychological questionnaire
110. Adjustment inventory for college students
111. Adjustment inventory for school students
112. Dev Mohanâ€™s achievement Motivation scale
113. Occupational stress index
114. Teacher adjustment inventory
115. Guidance needs Inventory J.S Grewal
116. Work Motivation scale
117. Performance appraisal form employees
118. P.G.I memory scale
119. Organizational climate inventory
121. Scientific aptitude test battery
122. Self concept questionnaire (1992) Raj Kumar Sarswat
123. Bhatiaâ€™s Battery of performance (Eng. Version) K.K Aggarwal/Saroj Arora
124. L.A (Level of Aspiration as a Dimension of Ansari Personality
125. Cornet learning and study skill inventory
126. Creativity attitude
127. Sentence complex
128. Student Evaluation
129. Test of personality characteristics for teacher N.S Yadav
130. Well being scale
131. Emotional intelligence questionnaire Prof. Victor and Malcolm
132. Problem solving inventory Paul
133. Re ynoldsâ€™s adolescent depression scale William M. Reynoldâ€™s134. Study habit inventory N.S. Yadav135. Global Adjustment
scale student form Psy.com services
136. The emotional stability questionnaire Psy.com services
137. Ravenâ€™s colored progressive metrics
138. Specimen set Ravenâ€™s Apm. J.C.Ravenâ€™s
139. The multimensational self esteem inventory Edward J.O Brien
140. Vocational preference inventory John.L.Holland
141. Bellâ€™s adjustment inventory Hugh.M.Bell142. The value scale
Dorthy Nevill143. Reynoldsâ€™s child depression scale William M. Reynoldsâ€™s
144. Cognitive behaviour roling scale J.Michvel William
145. The emotional problem scale Thampson
146. Differential aptitude test D.A.T completetest Dauglas C. Strohmer
147. Test of personality characteristic for teacherN.S.Yadav
148. British picture vocabulary scale Lloyd M. Dunn
149. Measure of psychological development Gwen A
150. How well do you know your self Thomson
151. Coping responses inventory
152. You can choose your own life Barbara kerr Davis
153. Emotional and Behaviour problem Elizabeth Monck154. Social skills training Susan. N. Spence
155. The Group Reading test II Nelson156. R oger personal adjustment inventory Patricia Jeffer
157. Early mathematic concept John
158. The mathematic attain ment test
159. Indian adaptation resourcing picture Udai Pareek frustration study

Name of Experiment(Psycho Lab) :
160. Ravenâ€™s Advance progressive Metrics (occupational John Ravenâ€™s
161. Wechurâ€™s adult performance intelligence scale
162. T.A.T Indian adaptation set of cards
163. Personal adjustment Inventory P.A.I
164. Personal adjustment Inventory P.A.I
165. Conflictive thoughts Analysis Inventory (CTAI)
166. D.A.T
167. S.P.M 5 Booklets, manual
168. Chatterjiâ€™s Scientific Knowledge and aptitude test
169. Adjustment Inventory for college students
170. Mallinâ€™s Intelligence Scale Indian Children (Box)
171. Multifactor Interest Questionnaire
172. Handbook of psychological and social instrument I,II
173. Handbook of psychological and social instruments complete series I,II,III
174. DAT form A English 100 response sheets of DAT(all 7 sub tests)
175. Alexander pass along(950 each) 8 sets
176. 16 PF complete set, form A,B clinical guide for 16 P.F.
177. Motivation Analysis test Complete Test
178. Jalota General Mental Ability test
179. Value scale Preview kit
180. Interpersonal style inventory
181. Dowry attitude Scale
182. Bisht battery of stress Abha Rani183. CIP Time perception scale K. Chadhuary, S.D. Sharma and S.K. Verma
184. Mangal Emotional Intelligence S. K. Mangal and Shubhra Mangal
Inventory
185. Altruism Scale S.N. Rai and S. Singh
186. P.G.I General Well BeingS.K.Verma and Anita Verma Measure
187. Singh Psychological Hardiness Arun Kumar Singh Scale
188. Human memory experimental procedure
189. Test of higher mental ability in science
190. The group test of general mental ability
191. D.A.T Answer sheet (7set)
192. Eysenet Personality questionnaire
193. H.S.P.Q- 1 set answer sheet
16 PF- Answersheets, scoring CIS- Male/Female Manual D.A.T - 1 SET- All (7)

Name of Appratus(Psycho Lab) :
S.No. Name of Apparatus
1.Mirror Drawing apparatus (5)
2. Stop watches (10)
3.Memory apparatus (electronic) (4)
4.Memory Drum (electrical) (4)
Area of science Lab : NIL
Physical Science Name Experiment : NIL

Name of Charts(Physical Science) : NIL
Name Experiment(Biological Science) : NIL
Name Charts(Biological Science) : NIL
Name Model(Biological Science) : NIL
Area of Lab(Language Lab) : NIL

Name of Equipments(Language Lab) : NIL
Name of Charts(Language Lab) : NIL
Indoor Game Area : 136606
Badminton (Men and Women)
Best Physique (Men and Women)
Boxing (Men and Women)
Chess (Men and Women)
Fencing (Men and Women)
Indoor Game(D.Ed/B.Ed./M.Ed.courses) :
Gymnastics (Men and Women)
Judo (Men and Women)
Kabaddi (Men and Women)
Power Lifting (Men and Women)
Rhythmic Gymnastic (Men and Women)
Table Tennis (Men and Women)
Weight Lifting (Men and Women)
Wrestling (Men and Women)
Yoga (Men and Women)
Squash (Men)
Outdoor Games(D.Ed/B.Ed./M.Ed.courses) :
Archery (Men and Women)
Athletics (Men and Women)
Ball Badminton (Men and Women)
Base Ball (Men and Women)
Basket Ball (Men and Women)
Cricket (Men and Women)
Canoeing and Kayaking (Men and Women)
Cycling (Road and Track) (Men and Women)
Football (Men and Women)
Handball (Men and Women)
Hockey (Men and Women)
Kabaddi (PS) (Men)
Kho-Kho (Men and Women)
Korfball (Men and Women)
Netball (Men and Women)
Rowing (Men and Women)
Shooting (Men and Women)
Softball (Men and Women)
Swimming (Men and Women)
Tennis (Men and Women)
Water Polo (Men)
Yachting/Sailing (Men and Women)
Area of Outdoor Games : 4278000

Name and No. of Instruments(arts and carfts) : NIL
Name Charts(arts and carfts) : NIL
Name of Models(arts and carfts) : NIL
Name of Instruments(Health and Physical...) : NIL
No of Instruments(Health and Physical... ) : NIL
Name Charts(Mathematics Resource Center) : NIL
Name Model(Mathematics Resource Center) : NIL
Name of Instruments (Anatomy,Physiology... ) : NIL
Name of Charts (Anatomy,Physiology ...) : NIL
Name of Equipments(Atheletic Care) : NIL
Name of Charts(Atheletic Care) : NIL
Name and No. of Instrumernts(Cultural Facility) : NIL
Name and No. of Instruments(Athletics) : NIL
Size of Track(Athletics) : NIL
Indoor Games(C.P.Ed/B.P.Ed./M.P.Ed.courses) : NIL
Indoor Game[Area](C.P.Ed/B.P.Ed./M.P.Ed.courses) : NIL
Outdoor Games(C.P.Ed/B.P.Ed./M.P.Ed.courses) : NIL
Area of Alloted Outdoor Games : NIL
Gym Facility for Women : Yes
Area of Men Gym(sq.Mts.) : 10865
No of Stnations(men) : 27
Area of Women Gym : 10865
No of Stnations(women) : 12
Mode of Salary : Cheque
Salary Transfer(Faculty) : Current Account -lump sum
Account Details of Bank (Salary) : 1044972333
Date of Opening of Bank A/c : 01/04/2009
Opening Balance : 0
Fees : 0
Donation : 0
MISC : 0
Total Amount Receipts : 0
Expenditure Teacher Salary : 9612700
Expenditure Non Teacher Salary : 113080
Expenditure Library : 10000
Expenditure Laboratory : 47200
Expenditure Furniture : 68500
Expenditure Misc : 176000
Total Expenditure : 10027480
Balance of Funds Available During Year : 0

Name of Auditor/CA : Sh Baldev Singh
Address of Auditor/CA : Panjab University Chandigarh
Phone NO. : 01722534802

Teaching Faculty Details
Teacher id Designation
NCHCHDTE-20349 Assistant Professor
NCHCHDTE-20484 Associate Professor
NCHCHDTE-20504 Chairperson and Professor
NCHCHDTE-18698 Assistant Professor
NCHCHDTE-20543 Associate Professor
NCHCHDTE-22190 Professor
NCHCHDTE-20960 Senior Lecturer
NCHCHDTE-20979 Reader
NCHCHDTE-20868 Professor

Composition of Society/Trust
Name Address
Chancellor The Vice President of India, New Delhi
Vice Chancellor VC office, P.U. Chandigarh
Senate and Syndicate P.U. chandigarh

M.Ed.
PG Diploma
Research
Methodology
Statistics
Master of Arts
(Education)

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Media coverage of Panjab University, Chandigarh, Chandigarh

Students Organization of Panjab University worried about poor placements

CHANDIGARH: Students Organization of Panjab University (SOPU) staged a protest outside University Institute of Pharmaceutical Science (UIPS) on Wednesday. The students expressed their resentment on poor placement scenario of the department, citing that the placement brochure for this year is yet to be printed.

Akhil Bansal, a final year student of masters of pharmacy, said students had earlier approached the chairperson regarding placements, but nothing was done on the matter.

Students with high ranks in Common Entrance test who opted for pharmacy and after spending six years in this department, they are placed nowhere, asked a student.

The students questioned the functioning of the placement committee of the department. PU dean student welfare A S Ahluwalia assured students that a department placement committee will be formed within next three days.

Residents dissatisfied

Panic gripped residents of Sector 32-B on Wednesday when some unruly youths went on the rampage, smashing window panes of three cars.

Police official said, We are suspecting it to be the handiwork of some drunk youths, who are staying at paying guest accommodations in the city. We are recording statements of people, who passed from that area at the time of the crime.

Police have registered a case against unknown persons and have started their investigation.

The people, whose cars were damaged however were not satisfied with the probe.

Cars that are parked right outside ones homes too are not safe in the city. We are totally dissatisfied with the police probe and dont expect much out of it, said one of the persons, whose car was damaged in the incident.

Young minds ease Sec 17 parking

CHANDIGARH: Parking a vehicle in Sector 17 will soon be a plain sailing.

Two Panjab University students have lent technical assistance to the UT administration to end parking woes in the sector. Pramod Mandotra and Shashank Kaushik, both final-year students of electrical and electronics engineering at University Institute of Engineering and technology (UIET), have designed display boards - under their project Automatic car parking system -- that will be installed at the parking entrance, informing visitors about the number of vacant slots and guiding them towards these.

The main display board at the entrance will mention the number of vacant parking slots. And the boards in the parking will guide a visitor to them, Shashank said.

The students have already given a presentation on the project to the UT urban planning department, UT finance secretary and the municipal corporation commissioner. A committee formed by the Punjab and Haryana high court will take a final call on it.

The system will first be introduced in CMC hospital parking lot in Sector 17. Later, the entire Sector will be covered. It aims at optimally utilizing the surface and underground lots, said Gaurav Sapra, UIET assistant professor and faculty advisor of the project.

English, Psychology students fail to crack University Grants Commission-NET exam

CHANDIGARH: In an unexpected dismal show at Panjab University centre this time, not a single student managed to crack the national eligibility test conducted by the University Grants Commission (UGC) in English and Psychology. A total of 10,000 students appeared in the December 2011 exams at the PU centre, for which the results were announced a day ago.

While English students have always shown a moderate to good result with 7-10 students clearing the exam each time, in Psychology none managed to clear the exam even in June 2011 NET exam. The exam is held twice a year in June and December and is a gateway to lectureship across colleges and universities in the country.

The record of computer science subject also remained lean with only one candidate passing in last five years from the PU centre.

In English nearly 1,200 students had appeared last time and in psychology on an average 200-300 students appeared. The result has been poor for both the subjects, says R K Mahajan, who runs a coaching centre in city.

English faculty members are equally surprised at the result his time. We have very bright students in the English department and they generally fare well in the NET exam, but this year the result was surprising, says Manju Jaidka, former chairperson, department of English and cultural studies at Panjab University.

Results for Commerce and Education stream, however, continue to top the chart. Each time, around 30 to 100 students clear the exam in these streams from PU centre.

Panjab University to get Rs 90cr accelerator facility

CHANDIGARH: An expert committee of the department of science and technology (DST), Government of India, has recommended Panjab University for the setting up of the accelerator facility.

The highly sophisticated research equipment costing Rs 90 crore will be set up in the south campus of the university. The facility will not only provide a boost to advanced research in the departments of biological and physical sciences on the campus, but it will also be available to scientists from all over the country, said a PU official.

This summer, no food for Panjab University hostellers

CHANDIGARH: Panjab Universitys recent move of shuffling certain hostel wardens is costing students dear. Close to 100 students of University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET), who are undergoing training programmes this summer and residing in boys hostel No. 8, are devoid of meals.

Students undergoing these scheduled training programmes, which are an annual feature on the campus, are making alternative arrangements for food. With the warden of hostel No. 8 shifted to hostel No. 3 recently, PU officials are passing the buck citing that the mess contract expires at this time of the year.

Each year such training programmes are organized for students. Its for the PU authorities to ensure that students get food at least, even if it requires imposing extra charges. Fearing wrath from the authorities, students neither wrote to the hostel nor the department, said a third year student from UIET declining to be named.

On being questioned, the outgoing hostel warden said none of the students raised an objection. We do make special arrangements for students but this year nobody requested for any such provision. The mess contractors generally close down their services during this time because the staff goes on vacation, said Emanual Nahar, the outgoing hostel warden.

UIET faculty members said all first year students are required to stay back during their summer break for workshops. Also in the same department, third year students of BE (Electrical and Electronics) are under going a special workshop in which industry experts have been invited. Certain other students, from BE second and third year both, who are learning Java programming, are staying back in hostels.

University teachers unite to struggle for demands

CHANDIGARH: Teachers leaders of colleges and universities of region have joined hands demanding proper implementation of sixth pay commissions recommendations by state governments.

Three dozen teachers leaders recently met at Panjab University under the aegis of All India Federation of University and College Teachers Organizations (AIFUCTO).

Gun-toting youth held at Panjab University

CHANDIGARH: On a day when close to 12,000 students were appearing in the Common Entrance Test (CET) at Panjab University, the local police arrested an outsider, who was flaunting a country-made pistol on campus. Sukhdeep Singh, who was accompanied by members of Student Organization of Panjab University (SOPU), was arrested under the Arms Act on Sunday afternoon from the campus. We got information that few SOPU members are accompanying a friend who is flaunting a pistol. The boy was brought to campus by his friends, said Gurmukh Singh, SHO of Sector 11 police station.

Students feedback helped them improve

CHANDIGARH: Earlier, I used to forget names of my students during a class, till they pointed this out in a feedback process. My biggest weakness became my strength because of my students honest assessment of my teaching style, said Bhura Singh Ghuman, a senior teacher of public administration at Panjab University (PU).

While the teachers evaluation may have taken years to see the light of day at the university, which eventually got a nod a few days ago, certain teachers have been following this practice of self evaluation for more than a decade now, without a formal constraint.

Ghuman says he would spend hours to read the feedback forms of students, something he has been doing for the last five years. During a lecture on users and service industry, Ghuman came up with the idea of getting himself evaluated by his students. An associate professor from University Business School ( UBS), Paramjit Kaur, has also been following this practice for last 12 years. I ask students to freely write about any problem they have encountered related to teaching material provided to them, said Kaur, who teaches finance and accounting to MBA students. Some teachers in department to laws and University Institute of Legal studies have been following the ritual of taking students feedback for a while now.

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

In a significant development, the Panjab University is planning to exempt from the PhD entrance test those who either have minimum 10 years of teaching experience on campus or affiliated colleges or have qualified for UGC-NET.

In 2009, the PU syndicate had announced that no admissions to PhD would, henceforth, be made till the time an individual has not written the entrance exam. This was done in accordance with the UGC norms which prescribe entrance exams as the mode of admission to PhD in any university.

However, at the last syndicate meeting, the management decided to look into the possibility of providing relaxation to its teachers and UGC-NET qualified candidates from the test.

A number of educationists from university and colleges have been requesting the authorities to exempt the regular teachers from the test. The entrance test rules also make it compulsory for the teachers to attend regular PhD classes — for at least six months. A number of teachers, especially in Punjab colleges, face difficulties in leaving their own lectures and attend the classes here. Besides, their independence for conducting research gets hampered this way, said P S Gill, a PU syndic.

A committee is currently reviewing the UGCs recommendations and possibilities of relaxing the norms in order to frame new guidelines for PhD aspirants.

Over 1,000 candidates apply for PhD in various subjects in PU every year. Of these, very few candidates qualify for the test. At present, there are about 600 researchers pursuing their thesis in various departments.
The PhD entrance is currently being conducted in only one language — English. A proposal was mooted last year for conducting the exam in two languages other than English, i.e. Hindi and Punjabi.

There were some objections from certain departments pertaining to formulating question papers in Hindi and Punjabi, said a PU official.

Going the science way

CHANDIGARH: Pure and applied sciences stream in graduation has long been a choice of Class XII medical and non-medical pass outs who wish to pursue a career in teaching, research, management and related disciplines.

Panjab University offers an array of applied and pure sciences course in its popular honours school programme. These include both conventional and innovative courses ranging from disciplines like Physics, Chemistry, Statistics, Mathematics, Botany, Zoology to the most recently introduced ones including medial physics, microbial bio-technology, nuclear medicine and public health.

Applicants for this integrated five year programme, including BSc and MSc, are admitted through a Common Entrance Test (CET), which was conducted on May 27 this year and the process of filling up form was online for the first time for academic session 2012-2013.

For all colleges, affiliated to PU, the individual merit list would be put up once the date of form filling expires. The process takes place between June 15 to 30 every year, results are declared in July first week and classes commence from July second week. Entrance exam is held for only the honours school programmes offered by PU, while admission in colleges is on the basis of Class XII merit.

Panjab University fired 1975 World Cup hockey teams victory

The writer has posted comments on this articleNeha Miglani, TNN |

CHANDIGARH: As the Indian hockey team prepares for London Olympics, Panjab University here relives memories of a few days 37 years ago, when the team that won the 1975 World Cup Mens Hockey - the only time India has ever won it - practiced on the university grounds. Sports psychologists at PU have dug out records that narrate fascinating accounts of the camp - from recording their emotional quotient and what was said to goad them to fight hard to how the hostel girls on rooftops cheered the team under the captaincy of Ajit Pal Singh.

Just before the Indian hockey team left for Kuala Lampur to create history on March 15, 1975, by beating Pakistan 2-1, as many as 42 trainees among whom team was selected, practised on PU ground, amidst cheering from girls from balconies of hostels overlooking the ground.

The boys were allotted newly-constructed hostel number 4 right next to the PU ground and girls would cheer them during the training camp. We remember each member of the team and how they charmed us, says Jitender Mohan, professor emeritus at Panjab Universitys department of psychology, who conducted the psychological tests for this team.

He recounts how the then Punjab Chief Minister Giani Zail Singh used to visit the team members and inspire them. Such was the madness to win the World Cup, that the team members were told to simply focus on their goal and not worry about anything else, says Mohan.

To invoke valour among players, the chief minister delivered a last-minute impromptu speech. You need not worry about a plot of land, a home or a scooter. You will get everything. Just get the World Cup, Zail Singh told them. A booklet issued by the then sports minister of Punjab mentioned how an unexpected delay took place during the departure of the hockey team from Chandigarh due to high enthusiasm of locals and the wishes and love they showered on the team till the last moment, recalls Mohan.

He described how the stands in the morning and evening sessions used to be full of spectators watching the team practice. From the sports enthusiasts to the chief ministers of states to sports ministers and Olympic Association officials, this training camp witnessed VIPs to students, teachers and sportspersons watching the preparations, he adds.

PU ground saw a host of dignitaries dropping in including the then Punjab governor M M Chaudhary, then president of Indian Olympic Association Raja Bhailindra Singh and then chairman of All-India Council of ports Gen Kumaramangalam, apart from Zail Singh. Overwhelming adulation was showered on the team and a series of functions was held on the university campus just before the team left for Kuala Lampur, recounts Mohan.

Dinners were hosted by the then vice-chancellor RC Paul, Panjab University Teachers Association (PUTA), by the students community of PU and by the Zoology Society of the university. There were two dinners hosted by hockey clubs in the city.

Panjab University hostellers kick up a stink over water

CHANDIGARH: While water woes continue to cripple city households during the peak summer season, Panjab University hostel inmates are equally upset with water scarcity.

The need to queue up every morning due to low water pressure and limited water supply in certain hostels is play havoc with the students. The problem is particularly stark in most boys hostels, especially hostel number 4, 5 and 8 and certain girls hostels as well. Students pointed how having a bath has become an uphill task each morning.

Panjab University: Stu-C remains hot-spot even after decades

CHANDIGARH: It may not be a pilgrimage spot but not one student on the Panjab University (PU) campus here would say that he or she has not been there. The Students Centre a.k.a. Stu-C at the university campus has been a must-do for students and visitors coming here.

Stu-C, as most from the student community prefer to call it, is a favourite hot-spot for students on the campus. Built in late 1960s, the centres very famous circular structure was designed by Le Corbusier, the French founder architect of Chandigarh city itself.

The centre was built with the idea of providing to students a place of recreation. The three-storeyed round building still stands tall even though a range of small shops have been allowed to be opened in the area in the past few years.punjab university, stu c, punjabnewsline

The Stu-C building itself houses an old Coffee House, recreation room, offices of the Students Council and the Dean-Students Welfare and a couple of eateries. The adjoining shops serve all kinds of street food and drinks - from lemonade, coffee and shakes to Chana Bhatura, Chana Rice, Rajmah Chawal, Noodles, sandwiches, burgers and much more.

Even when we were no longer students, we used to visit the centre with friends. It has been a famous place for all generations, said Amandeep Singh, ex-president of the Students Council.

I still remember the first time I ever came to Stu-C. The image is still bright and I remember the exact location where I sat for a cup of tea with my friends and discussed our research work, said R.K. Kohli, an alumnus and at present Professor in the Department of Botany.

He added: Earlier, it was just the Indian Coffee House. Rest of the area around it was deserted. It was peaceful and calm. Now, with the new shops surrounding the building, the place is crowded all the time. The violent acts of some students are also an addition.

Retired army officer Capt. Rajneesh Talwar, who owns a gift shop at Stu-C, has seen the place change over 30 years.

I recall that when it was just the coffee house, we had to wait for at least 30 minutes in the queue for finding a place to sit in its cafeteria, Talwar said.

Earlier, students who came to the centre would discuss their courses, music department students would practise music, theatre department students would gather here to practise their plays. Now, since children right after completing school are joining the university, the intellect and maturity are diminishing, he pointed out with an expression of disappointment.

Joy, the head-waiter of the Indian coffee house, has spent almost a decade working at the centre. Earlier we had a foot-fall of 2,500 students every day. Now, it is just 400-500. People have other fancier options in the city to hang out. The charm of this place is no longer strong for the present generation, he pointed out.

The taste of south Indian food is just the same as it was years ago.

The different and unique taste that the Stu-C coffee house has established cannot be matched by any other place, said Naval Kishore, alumnus and faculty member of the university.

For the younger generation teachers though, Stu-C has hardly changed.

The moment you enter the Indian Coffee House, it feels like you have travelled back in time. Just the ambience of the place has changed, otherwise it is all the same. The laid-back kind of attitude of students is Stu-Cs definition. The only additions are in the number of shops and the variety in menu, pointed out Mohanmeet Khosla, alumnus and now faculty member of the School of Communication Studies.

Students Organization of Panjab Universitys good luck SMSs stun Common Entrance Exam candidates

CHANDIGARH: In what turned out to be a surprise for scores of candidates who will appear in the Common Entrance Exam (CET) on Sunday to be conducted by Panjab University, messages of good luck poured in from a student organization just a day before the exam.

Questioning the source from which members of Students Organization of Panjab University (SOPU) obtained the list of candidates and their mobile numbers, the move has drawn flak.

Patna University entrance test between July 2-7

PATNA: Patna University (PU) on Friday finalized the details of entrance test to be conducted by its different colleges for admission to the three-year degree courses in arts, science and commerce streams.

PU students welfare dean Ezaj Ali Arshad said the entrance test would be held on different dates in different colleges so that the admission aspirants may take the test in more than one college. But, the entrance test for all the courses in one college would be held on the same date. The entrance test would be held between July 2 and 7 for admission to Patna College, Patna Science College, Vanijya Mahavidyalaya, B N College, Magadh Mahila College and Patna Womens College.

Panjab University students protest, say paper out of syllabus

CHANDIGARH: Within a span of only eight days, another major goof has marred the examination system of Panjab University (PU), as on Thursday semester II exam of forensic science department had come out of syllabus. Students protested and submitted a memorandum with the department head.

Semester II students, enrolled in the diploma of forensic sciences and criminology course, had their exam of Fundamental of Forensic Physical Science on Thursday. However, students were left surprised after seeing that all the five questions had come from the syllabus of semester I.

Angry girls protest Panjab University move

CHANDIGARH: Panjab University girls hostel residents may have to pay more than double the existing fine for entering hostel late. Boy hostellers on the other hand have no such restrictions. And if the latest move comes into effect, girls will have to shell out Rs 250 instead of Rs 100. While this move has triggered a fierce protest among students, university administrative officials are finding themselves in a fix.

PU registrar A K Bhandari who is the acting vice chancellor in the VCs absence, said that a committee will be formed to reconsider the proposed hike. The item pertaining to the fee hike came up at the syndicate meeting held on May 17 but was deferred. Keeping in view the students sentiments, a committee will be constituted to consider the proposal and students will also be a part of it, said Bhandari.

Reading tables! For laughs and tips on life

Weve seen them on monuments, trees and walls. But the art of doodling has taken on a new meaning in Panjab University with messages and graffiti scrawled on desks and sometimes read years later - some witty, some banal and others profound.

Overnight success normally takes 15 years, said one message engraved on a desk in one of the classrooms of the Department of Law. It may scare some young minds on the long road to success, but, for optimists, the message for hard work has to be read between the lines.

A message engraved on a table in a classroom

Hundreds of students, who have attended lectures sometimes interesting, sometimes boring in that classroom, may have read the engraved phrase but not many would have remembered it. Certainly, not more than a handful would have spared a thought to the soul who took the time to carve it in.

Doodling, the art of writing aimlessly, but sometimes with a lasting meaning, is something that most students may have attempted during their student years. According to the dictionary, it is a pattern, writing or picture that one makes when one is too bored or the mind is thinking of other things.

At the A.C. Joshi library at Panjab University, the study tables have interesting things written on it. You may be disappointed if you fail, but you will be doomed if you do not try, is one pearl of wisdom left behind by a student.

The art of doodling does not require any equipment. You just need to have a pen, a permanent marker or any pointed thing to do that easily. The victim is the table or desk in front of you. The impression you leave could be there for years, second year science student Radhika Kumar told.

Some have even made a habit of it.

A student of the political science department, Stanzin Kanzary, has written many such words with permanent markers at different places.

Sample some of his one-liners -- It is not a disgrace to fail; failing is the one of the greatest facts of the world! or Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.

Ratika Thakur, a student of masters in anthropology, was quite intrigued. These caught my eye the moment I sat down to study, she said about Stanzinas writings.

There are also those who make for a good laugh.

Apurva Gautam, a microbiology student, said: Once, I read a very witty quote written by someone on the table when I sat to study. Therefore, I keep searching for more whenever I sit down to study. The table is the first thing I read now. They make a good Facebook status.

One of the quotes that Apurva read was love is as private as a toothbrush.

At times, there are messages addressed from a boy to a girl. One such message read: I saw you studying Hindi. Please do come on Thursday at 6 pm here only- Gaurava.

Udit Dureja, a final semester student of the University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET), said: In our college people have signed wills. This scribbling was one reason that our tables are being replaced from wood to black marble and tiles. Now only pencils are used by some to write pointers to recall answers during exams.

Here was one will that Udit read: I hereby announce that after I leave the university, my room, books, bed, other belongings that I do not need will be passed on to my junior Karan. Undersigned. Ashish.

Said Liza Mittal, a postgraduate bio-physics student: It is always fun to see that the silly things we wrote while being students now amuse our juniors.

At times, the writings do not have a message. They can just say: Gurpreet Singh, B.Sc. (Hons School) Biochemistry; Batch of 2009.

Just to say, been there, seen that.

Panjab University has rows of students giving identical answers

CHANDIGARH: The examination branch of Panjab University has found a few instances in which students sitting in an entire row have copied from one another and have identical answers. Close to three-four such instances of entire rows of under-graduate students taking the final year exam this year having identical answer sheets have been detected by the evaluators during checking which have now been forwarded to the unfair means case (UMC) committee of PU.

The cases are being looked into by the UMC committee and the members will decide what to do next. The committee will check to what extent has there been imitation in these answer sheets, said A K Bhandari, PU controller of examination (CoE).

Evaluators, on condition of anonymity stated that eight to nine students in a row of final year arts students have been found to have same answers, copied word by word in the final year exam held this year.

Such instances where the entire row of students have similar answer sheets are rare, said an evaluator from a local government college on condition of anonymity.

There was an instance in which an entire row of students of second year commerce had the same answer, sub-heads, points and graphics for a particular answer, adds another evaluator.

Jagpal Singh, a PU senator and member of UMC committee said that the evaluation has just begun for the last semester exams of under-grad classes and such cases are unusual and rare.

PU to tighten noose around affiliated education colleges

In an attempt to tighten the noose around education colleges blatantly flouting the norms, Panjab University has formulated stringent set of rules. Vice chancellor Prof RC Sobti had constituted an eight-member committed headed by Jasvir Kaur Chahal, a senate member, to recommend changes required for smooth functioning of around 62 affiliated colleges offering BEd-MEd courses.

A majority of these colleges have been accused of not following the rules of University Grants Commission (UGC) and National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), including those pertaining to salaries and number of teachers to be hired.

Faculty members of such colleges are being paid paltry salaries, ranging from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 10,000, which is far less than UGC pay scales.

To curb this practice, the committee has recommended that the salaries of faculty members must be paid according to the latest UGC-NCET-PU norms, and through cheque. It recommended that salaries should be paid through electronic-mode from session 2012-2013. Further, it provides for the appointment of faculty to be regulated by the latest NCTE regulation dated July 26, 2010.

Terming both the issues as biggest flaws in the functioning of majority of education colleges, dean of college development council (DCDC) Prof Naval Kishore said the new rules would help in tackling both the issues.

The committee further recommended the process of carrying periodic inspections in such colleges, and whereever the inspections have not been undertaken should be taken up immediately. The committee has urged the vice chancellor to intervene, where the principals of the concerned colleges are not inviting committees for inspection.

A new proforma will also be devised on which the inspection report of all the colleges will be compiled and necessary action recommended against defaulters to ensure transparency and uniformity.

To make sure that the colleges do not indulge in data fudging, the committee has recommended that all the relevant documents of the colleges should be verified by DCDC office to ensure that there were no factual misrepresentations.

Besides, the final consolidated report is to be communicated to the concerned college and the college will be asked to remove deficiencies within a stipulated period laid down by the university. The colleges will be required to submit duly certified documentary evidence for the same to the DCDC office, failing which the university may take action it deemed fit.

The recommendations will be tabled in syndicate meeting scheduled to be held on May 17.

DCDC prof Naval Kishore said the recommendations were formulated after considering each and every aspect and would go a long way in streamlining the functioning of education colleges.

Notices to PU and its VC on family pension

Chandigarh: The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Panjab University and its Vice-Chancellor on a petition seeking permission to allow legal heir of deceased employees to opt for family pension.

A division bench comprising acting Chief Justice M M Kumar and Justice Alok Singh issued notices on a petition filed by Dr R D Anand, a former senate member of Panjab University.

The petitioner has sought directions for allowing the legal heir (spouses) of the deceased employees to opt for pension scheme and grant family pension to them with effect from August 31, 2006 — the last date for inviting options. The university has been given a weeks time to respond to the petition.

The petitioner has stated that the PU syndicate at its meeting held on July 12, 2006, had extended family pension to spouses of deceased employees by framing a new rule. According to the rule, the
benefit of family pension is to be extended to the employees, who have expired either before or after their retirement, without exercising the option of pension under Panjab University Pension Scheme within the period-date prescribed for the purpose.

The petitioner contended that as a follow-up of the new rule, the university invited options from eligible persons through a public notice, dated July 31, 2006. Thereafter, eligible heirs deposited the contributory provident fund (CPF) as well as interest thereon, as sought by PU to entitle them to pension.

However, after that, the new vice-chancellor took over and he refused to consider their cases and refunded their amount without assigning any reason, stating that the varsity had not yet decided the issue of family pension.

UT counsel to the Punjab and Haryana High Court during the resumed hearing of a public interest litigation.

Some city residents, including one Amit Jain, had moved the High Court against the grant of liquor licence in pre-fabricated temporary structure in various parts of the city.

The petitioners had sought directions to the Chandigarh Administration and Municipal Corporation authorities to discontinue the grant of liquor licence in pre-fabricated temporary structure alleging that it is not only illegal, but also hazardous to public at large as it endangers free flow of traffic movement because of the location of these structures. It is also injurious to health and overall atmosphere on account of lack of amenities, the petitioners had contended.

The petitioners had also sought directions to quash the excise policy of the administration in respect of such sale, which has been named as L-14-A licences as per excise policy for the year 2011-2012, or

Panjab University forays into Twitter, Facebook to stay in touch with pupils

CHANDIGARH: Heres some news that will excite students who are 24-7 on Facebook and Twitter. Cashing in on the popularity of social networking sites, Panjab University departments are launching their official networking webpage on such sites so that students can get all the information about firms visiting campus for placement, lectures of senior executives and key events. Students will also be alerted about updates through SMS.

University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET) has created its students interaction wall on Facebook, Twitter and other websites and other departments in PU are gearing up to follow suit. In a unique bid, UIET has also launched an SMS channel by which all its students can be reached in a single click.

4th semester law exam: 2 questions out of syllabus

Chandigarh: The current examination season at Panjab University and its affiliated colleges seems to be a season of errors, with fifth such instance occurring on Thursday. Appearing in their Information Technology Act and RTI Act examination, the students of fourth semester from Department of Law complained that the question paper carried two out-of-syllabus questions.

Two questions of 15 marks each, which appeared with internal choices in Unit II and III, turned out be out of syllabus, leaving the students confused and worried. Later, the students took up the matter with the chairperson of the department, Nishtha Jaswal. Admitting that the question paper carried out-of-syllabus questions, the chairperson assured the students that the matter would be taken up with the Board of Studies.

Similar anomalies were reported during the examination season this month on four different occasions at PU. On May 1, nearly 250 students from Department of Law, second semester, demonstrated against the...
errors in the question-paper format for Family Law exam.

At that time, one question from Unit IV turned out to be out of syllabus while both the questions which appeared in Unit III with internal choice were framed from the syllabus of Unit II.

On April 27, during the BA-III history examination, a lot of confusion prevailed at the affiliated colleges when the world map portion of the question paper was not supplied to a number of examination centres.

Upon realising the mistake, the officials had managed to provide the maps at a few examination centres which fall within their reach. However, alternative arrangements had to be made at the remaining centres.

On April 26, the question paper of BA-III Hindi examination, which was supposed to carry questions of a total of 90 marks, turned out to be of 84 marks only, with one question missing from the paper.

during BSc-I botany examination a 10-mark question left the students surprised to see that the answers to the fill-in-the-blank question were printed in the question book....

PU adopts different yardsticks for its courses

Panjab University seems to have different yardstick for deciding the fate of courses it runs. In a stark contrast, the PU authorities took no time in closing a self-financed course run by a department equipped with the best nfrastructure, including ONGC chair and faculty, while they went out of way to protect a course which is being run by guest faculty. The department does not even have sanctioned posts for the course in the budget.

The university had closed down MSc (petroleum) course, being offered by the department of geology, saying that not even a single student had opted for the course that led to its discontinuation.

On the contrary, students who cleared the entrance test in 2011 for admission in MSc (petroleum) were denied admission by the department and ended up having a zero session. However, after declaring the last session as zero year, the university authorities decided that efforts would be made to attract students to the course in the next session.

However, the authorities recently resolved to discontinue the course without even making an attempt to attract students in the coming session. According to sources in the department all the students, who were denied admission last year, are still interested in getting admission this year. The course was started in 2009.

On the other hand, a course in police administration was started by the department of evening studies in 2009 without permanent faculty members, which is in volition of the laid down norms of the university. The department recently decided to put the course in abeyance till it gets permanent faculty.

However, due to vested interest of some faculty members, lobbying for restarting the course, a committee comprising dean of university instructions (DUI) Prof Bhupinder Singh Brar, dean of students welfare (DSW) prof Amrik Singh Ahluwalia, dean of arts faculty BS Ghuman and chairman of the evening department Indu Tewari was formed, which resolved that the course would be resumed on a condition that a post vacant in other department will be transferred in the evening department.

Criticising the university, students and faculty members said it brought to focus the poor state of affairs and bad management.

By closing petroleum course, the university set to loose Rs. 70,000 fee per session from a candidate. Moreover, the department has best faculty along with eminent visiting faculty to guide the students. While the other department does not even have a sanctioned post for the said course, said a faculty member.

DUI Bhupinder Singh Brar said police administration was a popular choice among students and going by the facts and figure, the case was re-opened, in contrary, the petroleum course failed to attract students.

However, he said the fate of both the courses was decided on the basis of recommendations made by the respective departments.

Evening department chairman Indu Tewari said they had no budgeted post for the course therefore they decided to put it off.

Panjab University to have more drop-boxes for student grievances

CHANDIGARH: Simplifying the process of taking students grievances and gearing up for an anti-ragging drive in the new academic session, Panjab University is all set to install drop boxes for anonymous students complaints. Triggered by an incident where a mess contractor was found in an inebriated state in boys hostel number 8 during a surprise inspection on a complaint by students recently, all PU hostels will now have such drop boxes installed in the hostels.

Incidentally, one of the two drop boxes for students across the PU campus for expressing their grievances lies defunct on the second floor of the student centre. In a bid to make this least accessed facility more student friendly, such drop boxes will also be installed at the student centre along with the hostels.

For those students who have serious concerns and cannot address them directly to wardens or chairpersons, we will be installing drop boxes in all hostels and the ground floor of the student centre, says A S Ahluwalia, dean, student welfare. He added that this will also ensure that newly enrolled students on the campus do not hesitate in sharing their problems.

The channel of getting students grievances is wrong and even the existing drop box is wrongly placed. A student who would walk up to the PU student council office till the second floor can well inform the council members or the DSW in his office. The real challenge is to sustain the new step, says Pushpinder Sharma, president, Panjab University campus student council (PUCSC). Not many students know about yet another drop box at the vice chancellors office.

In a recent case at PU boys hostel number 8, when a surprise check was conducted on a complaint by students, sub-standard food was being served in the hostel. Neither was the meal according to the list of nutritive food prepared by committee of wardens, nor was the quality of rice found fit for consumption.

Jeannerets furniture lies dumped in Panjab University

CHANDIGARH: Prized furniture items designed by celebrated architect Le Corbusiers cousin Pierre Jeanneret, gather dust and lie unattended in open at Panjab Universitys administrative block.

Call it apathy of the PU staff who left these furniture items at the buildings entrance during a recent shifting of rooms, or sheer lack of awareness, but the damage to these items has turned into an eyesore for visitors and students.

Some of the oldest chairs and benches loaded with frivolous items and lunch boxes are dumped in a corner at the entrance. Incidentally, several furniture pieces that belong to PU, figure in the list of items submitted to UT administration carrying heritage value.

Most furniture items at PU are of immense value because of Jeannerets contribution and it must be preserved systematically. Valuing the heritage items is important and a committee must ensure that it is not further damaged, says Pradeep Kumar Bhagat, principal Chandigarh College of Architecture (CCA), who was a member of the UT heritage conservation committee. While the administrative block at PU is undergoing a revamp, commencing with accounts department that has already been modernized, university is yet to figure out a means to store the furniture.

Punjab University to launch open credit system

CHANDIGARH: Panjab University (PU) has introduced an open credit system for students who wish to study additional subjects while specialising in one subject during post-graduation. The system operates on two levels- within the faculty and across faculties.

If a student of MA English opts for any other subject from the faculty of Arts, which may include Political Science, Psychology, or others, the credit evaluation will take place within the faculty. Or if the student of MA English opts for a subject from the faculty of science, which for instance may include Physics or chemistry, then the credits earned will be counted from across the faculty. The ratio of credits decided will be 80 to 20.

Eighty points will be lifted from the students score in his main course and remaining points from the credits earned in the optional subjects. The scores of the optional subjects contribute to the final score by 20 per cent. A student needs to earn 80 per cent credits from his department and 20 per cent from the exams taken from other departments.

The teaching hours for the optional classes and the examination schedules will have to be considered. The lectures for the optional subjects will preferably be scheduled after 12 pm. A common time slot will be fixed for all departments so that students from every department can go for studying the chosen subject without any confusion. It will be the same slot for the entire university to avoid any confusion. Or students may get the option to choose the time slot that doesnt clash with their department schedule.

Pay protection: Panjab varsity adopts pick-and-choose policy

Panjab University (PU) seems to be adopting a pick-and-choose policy while extending the benefit of pay protection to new faculty members joining the varsity from other institutes.

There are instances where the varsity has adopted different yardsticks for considering the last pay
drawn by people coming from the same institute, while fixing their salaries at PU.

In one such case, Ajay Ranga joined the University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS), PU, in August 2008 as assistant professor, after serving in Rayat and Bahra College for three years. The authorities refused to extend him pay protection stating, In case of persons, who join PU from private educational institutes, the pay drawn by them in their previous employment not be protected. However, if the selection committee keeping in view various issues like experience, higher qualification, research work, existing status and salary structure of the department concerned, should make specific recommendations with regards to the protection-fixation of pay of candidate.

On the contrary, an employee of the marketing division at Rayat and Bahra College, who had no teaching experience, joined the university in December 2008 as a faculty member and was given pay protection, although the selection committee had not made any recommendation for the same.

When Ranga protested, the varsity formed a three-member committee, comprising senate member Ashok Goyal, dean college development council (DCDC) professor Naval Kishore and dean arts faculty professor BS Ghuman, to look into the case.

However, even after three months, the committee has failed to reach any conclusion.

Calling for uniformity in giving pay protection, Ajay Ranga said everyone joining the varsity should be given the benefit without any biases.

Mohammed Khalid, secretary of Panjab University Teachers Association (PUTA), said the authorities were depriving new faculty members of financial and other benefits by not considering the last pay drawn.

The PUTA secretary said, The pick-and-choose policy has become a norm in the varsity. Not extending benefits to one individual, which are given to others in the same category, is unfair and uncalled for.

When contacted, varisty registrar professor AK Bhandari said pay protection was given to all faculty members coming from PUs affiliated colleges. However, in cases of people coming from private colleges, the benefit is given on the basis of the recommendations of the selection committee, he said.

When asked about the alleged pick-and-choose policy, Bhandari said the authorities would look into the matter to make sure that no one was deprived of their right.

PU teachers with PhD deprived of increments

In utter discouragement to many young faculty members of Panjab University who have completed their PhD while in service, the university has failed to provide three advance increments to them, thus violating the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines.

As per the guidelines teachers who complete their PhD while in service shall be entitled to three non-compounded increments, if such PhD is in the relevant discipline and has been awarded by a university complying with the process prescribed by the UGC for enrolment, course-work and evaluation, etc. Babita Mahajan, assistant professor at the department of Law, is among many of such faculty members, who have been deprived of their right. Babita joined the university in 2005 and completed her PhD in January 2011. Even after 15 months, she was not paid her dues.

The PU authorities have been turning their back on those approaching for increments on ground that a clarification is needed from the UGC on the issue, as the audit department has raised objections to the increments given to the teachers having completed their PhD while in service.

While talking to HT, Babita claimed that she was entitled for three increments as per the UGC notification, which was also approved by the syndicate. To reasons known best to authorities, I have not been given any increments, said Babita, adding that She had also written to the authorities to pay her dues.

When contacted, dean of university instructions (DUI) prof Bhupinder Singh Brar said in case of audit objections there was nothing much that the PU authorities could do. Clarifications from the authorities concerned are must to proceed further, said prof Brar. However, he assured to expedite the process so that the teachers get their dues.

The Panjab University Teachers Association (PUTA) has also received several complaints in this regard. Mohammed Khalid, secretary of PUTA, said all the benefits provided to the teachers under the UGC guidelines should be uniformly given to all without adopting pick and choose policy. We will take up the issue with the authorities, said Khalid.

Panjab University syndicate to prepare master seniority list

CHANDIGARH: Panjab University syndicate on Sunday decided to prepare a master seniority list of faculty members.

By majority vote, the syndicate deferred any immediate decision on the matter as it required detailed deliberations. Vice-chancellor RC Sobti said, A master seniority list is a must for the university.

The syndicate also accepted recommendations of the Sada Nand Committee regarding the terms and conditions under which teaching and non-teaching employees of Panjab University would be allowed to go on deputation. However, the House resolved that the total period of deputation would not exceed five years in the entire career of the employee plus two years of any other permissible leave. This two-year period would be exclusive of mandatory leaves such as, maternity and child care.

The House felicitated the Centre for Women Studies and Development for sanction of Rs 66-lakh grant by the UGC in the current financial year.

It appreciated the efforts of the central placement cell in revamping the universitys placement mechanism and the rich dividends expected from AVSAR-2012, the recent central placement drive.

The syndicate also felicitated three students of UIET who have been shortlisted for Google Summer of Code 2012, a global programme that offers students stipend to write code for open-source projects.

The House also honoured Dr Hitesh Kapoor, assistant professor of UIET, for his paper being awarded the first prize in the Conference on Global Economic Scenario. Tributes were also paid to Bal Krishan, former chairperson, Department of Laws, and the house lauded his contribution to the growth of the university.

Another plagiarism row hits Panjab University

In yet another case of alleged plagiarism in Panjab University, a faculty member has been accused of lifting research data from a students dissertation. In a recent complaint, Jayanti Dutta, deputy director, academic staff college, had accused Bala Krishan, faculty member in the centre for public health, PU, of lifting data from the dissertation of her student, Shruti Gupta.

The dissertation titled Facility survey of health centres in tricity according to Indian Public Health Standards was the research work of Shruti Gupta, a student of department of public health in 2009-11 session. The research was supervised by the complainant and co-supervised by NK Goyal of Government Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32.
Bala Krishan allegedly used the research data from the dissertation for sending a research paper as corresponding author to the Indian Journal of Public Health and Journal of Family Welfare without the consent of research contributors.Though the research paper was rejected, the complainant insisted that it does not absolve Bala Krishan of plagiarism attempt.

The student had also submitted a written complaint to vice-chancellor RC Sobti about alleged unethical use of her dissertation research data. She had urged the V-C to take action against into the unethical practice.
Acting on her complaint, the university formulated a five-member committee comprising senior faculty and senate members. Talking to Hindustan Times, Jayanti Dutta said it was a very serious issue and against research ethics. The authorities should look into it so that a wrong example is not set, she said.

When contacted, Bala Krishan said he was being targeted due to professional jealousy. The research paper was not published so there is no question of plagiarism. Dean, research, RK Kohli refused to comment over the matter, stating that the matter is being looked into.

No plagiarism detection software installed In 2010, Panjab University had announced to develop software to check plagiarism, but nothing has been done in this regard so far. The announcement was made at a senate meeting and a committee was also formed under the chairmanship of the then research dean Shashi Sharma.

The decision was taken after three PhD students were caught copying research thesis last year. Two of the students were from the history department and one from the political science department. The software was to be installed at all libraries, where teachers could check theses and other material submitted by students.

PU to involve students in revision of curriculum

In a significant move, Panjab University has decided to involve all the stakeholders, including students and potential employers, in process of revision of the curriculum in the social sciences stream with an objective to improve employability of students in the market. The decision was taken in the recently held meeting of committee of the arts faculty and was approved by the vice-chancellor along with other recommendations.

As per the laid down norms, the curriculum is completely revised after three years by the board of studies.Talking to the Hindustan Times, dean arts faculty, prof BS Ghuman said all the 20 social science departments have been asked to hold a workshop for revision of syllabus.

Teachers, from colleges and university, students and potential employers will take part in exercise of producing syllabus as per market need in these workshops. The inputs provided by the students and employers will be placed before board of studies for final approval before incorporating them in the syllabi, said prof Ghuman.

The step has been taken to ensure that the courses being offered are in tune with the demands of the market. There is a gap in what we teach and what is required in the market. Based on the suggestions made by the employers and students, the course will be tailor-made to meet the demands prevailing in the market, added Ghuman.For the purpose of funding the workshops, the committee has identified Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) and dean college development council (DCDC) and funding agencies.

Appreciating the initiative taken by the authorities to involve students and potential employers in the process of syllabi revision, student leader Sumit Goklnaey said that students and employers are stakeholders and their inputs will do a world of good for the cause of enhancing the employability of students of arts stream.Besides that, the committee also suggested to promote fieldwork in courses offered in the social sciences, which are predominantly theory based. As per the recommendation, each student will have to submit assignments based on fieldwork.

To improve communication skills of students, it has been decided that each discipline should have two credit papers on communication skills. The paper should comprise of two units addressing skills like writing, soft skills and other professional skills required for employability.

PU to ask Punjab to fill vacancies in aided colleges

Panjab University has taken upon itself to persuade the Punjab government to fill up vacant posts - teaching and non-teaching - in private aided colleges affiliated to the varsity.
There are as many as 136 such colleges in Punjab, which are grappling with acute shortage of
staff.

After the issue of staff shortage was raised by representatives of colleges in recent senate meeting, Vice Chancellor Prof RC Sobti had assured the House of taking up the matter with the government.
The VC announced to lead the delegation of college teachers to meet the state education minister very shortly.
The Punjab government had banned recruitments in colleges in July 2005, since then no regular appointments had been made.

There are a total of 3,568 sanctioned teaching posts in these colleges, which are managing the affairs with mere 1,251 regular teachers. The situation is worse in case of non-teaching staff as there are only 452 regular persons working against a sanctioned strength of 2,473.
Lauding the initiative taken by the VC, Dr Tarlok Bandhu, faculty member of Malwa Central College for Education for Women, Ludhiana, said that it was a welcome move and that they were grateful that Prof Sobti was taking personal interest in the issue.

Kuldip Singh, assistant professor in Guru Nanak National College, Doraha, Ludhiana, said that as custodian of all affiliated colleges, Prof Sobti had taken the right step.
He has assured us to use his office to make sure that our long-pending demands on recruitments are fulfilled, said Kuldip Singh.

With ban imposed on regular recruitments, the colleges were forced to hire a large number of guest faculties to meet their academic requirements, thus violating University Grants Commission (UGC) norms, which state that the number of guest teachers should not exceed 10% of the total faculty.

VK Tewari, secretary of World Federation of Teachers Unions and general secretary of All India Federation of University and College Teachers Organisations (AIFUCTO), said that the government needed to be more sensitive to higher education in Punjab.

He further said: The ban had a deleterious impact on the higher education in the state and we urge the government to lift the ban and ensure that students are not at the receiving end.The freeze on the recruitment has also led to exploitation of teachers hired on ad hoc basis.

Dr Jagwant Singh, president of Punjab and Chandigarh College Teachers Union (PCCTU), said that teachers are being paid meagre salaries ranging from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 10,000, far less than pay scales prescribed by the UGC.In December last year, various bodies, including PCCTU and AIFUCTO, agitated across the state to highlight the problems faced by colleges.

PU flouting UGC norms for guest faculty

Throwing University Grant Commission (UGC) norms to winds, several departments of Panjab University have employed guest teaching faculty, much more than the numbers prescribed under the rules.According to the UGC guidelines, guest faculty should be appointed only when it is absolutely necessary and when the student-teacher ratio does not meet the norms.
Also, the number of such appointments should not exceed 10% of the total faculty.

The guest faculty can be engaged only against sanctioned posts and shall be paid Rs. 1,000 per lecture up to a maximum of Rs. 25,000 per month, excluding conveyance charges.On the contrary, the strength of such teachers is around 50% in many departments.

The department of evening studies has appointed as many as 23 guest teachers compared to 25 regular ones.
The university institute of legal studies (UILS) has a total of 20 guest faculty members sharing the burden of teaching along with 21 regular teachers.

Similarly, the department law has strength of 33 teachers out of which 16 are not on rolls of the university.
A senior faculty member said that the acute faculty crunch has left the departments with no choice but to hire guest faculty.

With PU sitting over recruitments of teachers despite repeatedly advertising various posts, majority of departments are reeling under staff shortage.Sample this:

Department of chemistry where sanctioned faculty positions are 47, around 15 regular teachers are left to run the department. Institute of chemical engineering, one of the prestigious institutes in the field, has only around 20 teachers running the department against the sanctioned 44 teaching posts.

The Department of Zoology is virtually left with about half-a-dozen faculty members against the sanctioned 14 posts.
With little accountability, hiring more guest faculty is not good in varsity interest, said a faculty member. The guest faculty members are aware that they are a stop-gap arrangement and hence the dedication is missing. At the end of the day, the students are the ones who are most affected, said the regular faculty member.

When contacted, dean university instruction Prof Bhupinder Singh Brar said that under the current circumstances it was very difficult to meet UGC norms. Attributing the crunch to no hiring of teachers on regular basis in the last few years, Prof Brar said that the only solution was to fill vacant posts in all departments.

PU flouts norms to favour faculty member

In blatant violation of its own rules and regulations, Panjab University has gone out of the way to extend favour to one of its retired faculty members.
A varsity professor, who retired in July last year, had filed a special leave petition in the Supreme Court along with application

seeking interim relief for allowing to continue in the post and retain official accommodation and was granted an ex-party stay. The varsity later filed an application in the Supreme Court for vacation of stay.
Coming to the rescue of that faculty member, it was unanimously resolved in the recently held syndicate meeting that application filed in the Supreme Court for vacation of stay granted to one of the faculty members not to retire him on attaining the age of 60 years be withdrawn immediately.

The members were of opinion that the senate had already recommended amendment of regulations pertaining to the retirement of teachers from 60 to 65 years. The proposed amendments in regulations were sent to the government of India for which the approval is awaited.

Acting on the decision, the university moved an application for withdrawal of letter send for vacation of stay.
By doing so, the varsity however violated the rules that say that the amended regulation can come into effect only after approvak by GoI and published in gazette of India notifications.
Not only this, the varsity has also flouted its own regulations which state that the syndicate may make rules not inconsistent with the provisions of its Act and regulations, as they may deem necessary for carrying on the executive governance of the university.

Questioning the university, a senate member asked how could the varsity take such a decision when the regulation related to superannuation of teachers was not approved and that too in case of only one faculty member.
After the retirement the faculty member, for whom the rules were bent, around 10 other faculty members retired and moved court to seek relief. As many as five of them retired after the regulations of retirement age were amended by the senate on December 20, 2011.

However, in all the cases the university objected, stating that the amended regulations had not been approved by the government.In the past also, a large number of teachers have moved court for obtaining similar relief, but their cases were objected to by the varsity.A faculty member said that it clearly showed that varsity authorities were trying to favour a faculty member who also happened to be a senator and belongs to a strong lobby.

Advocating same treatment for all the teachers, Prof Shashi Sharma, former dean research, who retired on December 31, 2011, said that the varsity should give relief to all retired teachers with effect from 2008.Echoing Sharmas sentiments, Prof KP Singh, another retired teacher, said that there should be no pick-and- choose policy. Equal opportunities should be given to all, said Prof Singh.Prof AK Bhandari, registrar, said that it was a decision of the syndicate and from now on the varsity will not oppose stay obtain by any faculty member after retirement.

Panel looking for new PU V-C under cloud

A search committee constituted to select new vice-chancellor of Panjab University (PU) has come under the cloud due to its composition, as it is allegedly not in accordance with University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations. The committee does not have a UGC nominee while one of its members, IS Chadha, is a PU senator.

As per regulation 7.3.0 of UGC Act, selection of a V-C is to be done by a search committee. The members of the ommittee shall be persons of eminence in the sphere of higher education and shall not be connected in any manner with the arsity concerned or its affiliated colleges.

In respect of state and central universities, the committee should have a nominee of the chancellor, who should be chairperson of the committee, a nominee of chairperson and a nominee each from UGC and syndicate-executive council-board of management of varsity concerned.

Vice President of India, Mohammad Hamid Ansari, who is the PU chancellor, had formed a search committee headed by justice Leila Seth, and includes Dr Rama Rao and Indian Foreign Service official IS Chadha (retd), also a PU senator.
Stating that the chancellor had nominated him to the senate and as member of the search committee, Chadha said, In case he had any doubt on my integrity, the chancellor would not have nominated me on the panel.

Asked if he was aware of the UGC norms when he was made member of the search committee, Chadha said whether he was aware of the guidelines or not doesnt matter, as it was the chancellor who had inducted him into the committee.
In a similar case reported by a section of media, the UGC recently had submitted an affidavit in the Bombay high court, declaring the three-member selection committee constituted for the selection of vice-chancellor of University of Pune as invalid.

In the affidavit, the UGC stated that it is binding for every university to follow the formers instructions regarding appointment of V-C. The three-member committee does not have a nominee of the UGC and a member of the selection has been involved with UoP.

Tarlok Bhandu, a member of PU senate, said when the university has accepted the UGC regulations in toto, the formation of the search committee should have been as per the laid guidelines.
When contacted, UGC joint secretary AK Dogra said it is mandatory for universities across the country to follow the UGC guidelines laid for the appointment of V-C.

Raising objection to the inclusion of IS Chadha in the search committee, Rabinder Nath Sharma, a senior senate member, claimed that the former has been actively involved in the senate politics and also participated in the election process of various statutory bodies.Its not possible for such person to take decision based on merit. He will have some biases, which will not help in fair selection, said Sharma.Two senators are in the fray for the V-Cs post.

Parvathaneni Harish, joint secretary and officer on special duty to the vice-president, told that the chancellor has nominated all members and everything has been done as per norms. The members of the committee are doing their job in a most efficient manner, said Harish.

PU fails to sustain yet another course

Panjab University has failed to sustain yet another course in sciences. The latest on the list is MSc in petroleum, which is offered by department of geology. In the past six years, the university started 50 new courses, out of which 16 were scrapped and many are on the verge of being discontinued. The scrapped courses include bachelors of science (honours schools), computer science, diploma in advance scientific computation, computer applications, apparel designing, M phil zoology, medical parasitology and training programme in cytogenetic, immunological and molecular biology.

The MSc petroleum course was started in the year 2009 in the universitys centre for petroleum and applied geology. Recently, the centre was merged with the department of geology and the faculty of the department, in a meeting, decided to discontinue the course from the next academic session. The department maintains not even a single student opted for the course, which led to its discontinuation.

However, contrary to the claims, students, who cleared the entrance test for the course, were denied admission by the department in the last session and ended up having a zero session. While the department said the students did not submit the fee on time, the latter accused the department of not informing them in time.

After declaring the last session as zero year, it was decided by a committee headed by the dean university instruction (DUI) prof Bhupinder Singh Brar that efforts will be made to attract students for the course. However, the faculty members decided to shut the course without even making an attempt to attract students in the coming session.
The decision was taken by the faculty of the department and a letter of the same came to me, which I forwarded to the vice-chancellor for approval, said Brar.

Professor Naval Kishore, chairman of the department, said that it is not practically viable to run the course with few students. He further said that there were no campus placements of the students of the first batch, who passed out.
Meanwhile, the students of the department accused the authorities of making little effort in promoting the course. Its the job of the university to promote the course. If students are not getting placed, who is responsible for this? It reflects that the university is not capable to help the deserving students find suitable jobs, said Ravi Shankar, a student of last batch of the course.

Terming the closure of the course as an outcome of internal politics in the department, Ravi stated that there are other courses in the department in which the placements are poor. Will they close all the courses?

PU teachers cold to paper-checking due to low remuneration

Panjab University teachers appear to be shrugging off responsibilities of paper-setting, evaluation and re-evaluation owing to meagre remuneration paid to perform such duties. The university, arguably the most financially sound varsity in the region, is a poor paymaster when it comes to paying teachers for such jobs as compared to neighbouring universities.
With teachers not showing much interest in taking part in the process of evaluation papers, the varsity has failed to declare results in time on many occasions in the past.

Teachers get Rs. 11.80 for checking one paper of under- graduate classes and Rs. 13.80 for post-graduate classes from Panjab University. For paper-setting, PU gives Rs. 566 for a set of two question papers for under-graduate classes and Rs. 366 for post-graduate level. Even out of this, the varsity deducts 5% amount in the name of maintenance of varsity guesthouses on the campus and at other stations.

In contrast, Kurukshetra University gives Rs. 1,200 for setting paper in one subject and Rs. 10 for evaluating one answer-sheet. Similarly, Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has fixed Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 14 for paper-setting and checking, respectively.

Punjabi University, Patiala, shell out Rs. 10 and Rs. 12 for checking papers of under-graduate and post-graduate classes, respectively. Rs. 550 is given for preparing one set of papers.Panjab University Teachers Association (PUTA) has written a letter to the registrar and demanded that remunerations for invigilation, paper-setting, evaluation and re-evaluation for varsity teachers be doubled.

Aware of the situation, registrar and controller of examination Prof AK Bhandari said that they planned to considerably increase the existing fees. The matter will be take up in the coming syndicate meeting, he said.

Varsity fails to declare results on time, yet again

Despite repeated assurances of speeding up the process of revaluation, Panjab University has once again failed to announce results in time, leaving the students of department of law in a crisis. It has been more than two months since students of the department took the first, third and fifth semester examinations, but the results have not been declared so far. The exams got over in December and the university was to announce the results by first week of February.
The senior officials of the examination branch blamed the department stating that the evaluation process was not completed in time. It takes time to compile the information supplied for declaration of results, Professor Nishtha Jaswal, head of the law department, said that the result would be out in a couple of days.

Giving reasons for the delay, prof Jaswal said that law is a big department and is grappling with shortage of staff, he said, We have classes in both morning and evening, which increases the workload of the teachers. Meanwhile, students continue to suffer. The delay has left the students a worried lot as the date sheet for the next semester examination starting from April 7 has been announced.

Its hard to understand why the university is taking so long in declaring the results. Things get difficult for students who fail to clear their exams, as the process of re-evaluation takes time, said Balinder Singh, a student from the department, adding that they would stage a protest in case the university failed to declare the results soon.
Harpreet kaur, another student, rued that delaying results is a common practice of the varsity. They only act when the students are forced to resort to agitation, she said.

The university is without a regular controller of examination, which is not helping its case. Registrar AK Bhandari is holding additional charge of controller of examination and despite repeated attempts he was not available for comment.
Last year, the vice-chancellor RC Sobti had raised concerns after some teachers allegedly had refused to perform duties pertaining to examinations, particularly evaluation, saying it was not their job.The vice-chancellor had urged the teachers to extend cooperation in setting question papers, conduct examinations and evaluation, so that the results are declared on time.

Varsity fails to declare results on time, yet again

Despite repeated assurances of speeding up the process of revaluation, Panjab University has once again failed to announce results in time, leaving the students of department of law in a crisis. It has been more than two months since students of the department took the first, third and fifth semester examinations, but the results have not been declared so far. The exams got over in December and the university was to announce the results by first week of February.
The senior officials of the examination branch blamed the department stating that the evaluation process was not completed in time. It takes time to compile the information supplied for declaration of results, Professor Nishtha Jaswal, head of the law department, said that the result would be out in a couple of days.

Giving reasons for the delay, prof Jaswal said that law is a big department and is grappling with shortage of staff, he said, We have classes in both morning and evening, which increases the workload of the teachers. Meanwhile, students continue to suffer. The delay has left the students a worried lot as the date sheet for the next semester examination starting from April 7 has been announced.

Its hard to understand why the university is taking so long in declaring the results. Things get difficult for students who fail to clear their exams, as the process of re-evaluation takes time, said Balinder Singh, a student from the department, adding that they would stage a protest in case the university failed to declare the results soon.
Harpreet kaur, another student, rued that delaying results is a common practice of the varsity. They only act when the students are forced to resort to agitation, she said. The university is without a regular controller of examination, which is not helping its case. Registrar AK Bhandari is holding additional charge of controller of examination and despite repeated attempts he was not available for comment.

Last year, the vice-chancellor RC Sobti had raised concerns after some teachers allegedly had refused to perform duties pertaining to examinations, particularly evaluation, saying it was not their job.The vice-chancellor had urged the teachers to extend cooperation in setting question papers, conduct examinations and evaluation, so that the results are declared on time.

PU spent Rs. 60 lakh on litigation in last 6 yrs

Panjab University has had to spend around Rs. 60 lakh to defend itself in the 1,316 litigations in the past six years. According to figures provided by the university, in 2007, PU faced 176 legal cases, which cost the varsity Rs. 9.6 lakh, 206 cases in 2006 for which it spent Rs. 6.5 lakh.In

2008, it cost PU Rs. 8.9 lakh for handling 165 cases, while in 2009 the authorities shelled out Rs. 8.33 lakh for 176 court cases. The years 2010 and 2011 saw a significant jump in the expenditure incurred on contesting litigations. For 175 cases in 2010, Rs. 10.7 lakh was spent, while Rs. 14.9 lakh was spent on 209 cases in 2011. This year, so far 15 cases have been filed against the university.

A majority of cases pertain to matters related to admissions, examinations, affiliations and service issues filed by students, employees and aspirants, who have applied for various posts in the university.Besides leading to a huge financial loss, the court cases dented the image of the university, said senior senate member and dean, faculty of languages, Virander Kumar Tewari.He said such situations arose due to incompetence of the authorities in maintaining dialogue and interacting with the aggrieved litigants.

In the last few years, the university has lacked legal competence and transparency and their approach wasnt objective, alleged Tewari.PU fellow Tarlok Bandhu said the authorities should act cautiously to avoid litigation. He said the authorities should try to resolve issues at their end instead of allowing the disgruntled to move court.
The university has three legal retainers - advocates Anupam Gupta, Deepak Sibal and Anmol Rattan Sidhu. They also have 17 high court lawyers and 10 district court lawyers on its panel.

Talking about the large number of people moving court, Gupta, who is on the panel of the university since 1991, said, The university and the high court are based in Chandigarh and are accessible to people. Had the two been located at different places, the number of cases would have been lesser.
He however looked at the bright side and said that it showed how aware people were of their rights and this would eventually enhance the accountability of the university.
Bhupinder Singh Brar, dean, university instructions, said they tried their best to resolve the issue at their end by consulting the universitys legal team.
In order to tackle the rising litigation cost, Brar said there was a need to strengthen their legal cell. Despite repeated attempts, registrar AK Bhandari was not available for comment.
Indifferent attitude
In 2011, five staff members of the computer centre on the PU campus were to be promoted, but for some reason only one was promoted. The matter was taken up in the senate and no resolution came through. The four staff members also gave a representation, but in vain.
Vinod Kumar, one of the aggrieved candidates, moved court. In the first hearing only, the university gave an undertaking in the court that they would meet their demand.
Kumar was promoted as system administrator in January. I was forced to knock the doors of the court as I was deprived of my rights. The university could have avoided the situation, said Kumar.

Panjab University teachers see red over campus showbiz

Celebrities descending on the Panjab University (PU) campus to promote their films or shoot them may be to the liking of hundreds of awestruck students, but its making the faculty see red.

With some recent events drawing students from teaching departments and some even bunking classes to see the stars, the teachers union has taken up the issue with the varsity authorities, pointing out that all this is affecting the institutions academic atmosphere.

The Panjab University Teachers Association (PUTA) has cautioned the authorities to check the projection and promotion of commercial movies and activities on the campus. PUTA has taken up the matter with vice chancellor R.C. Sobti.

The university has the provision of allowing production houses to come and shoot their films on campus. However, if someone comes for promotion of their movies without notice for purely commercial purposes and disturbs the decorum of the departments nearby, it is not good, PUTA president Akshay Kumar said.

The association feels that showcasing of this kind of content in an educational institution is detrimental to the academic atmosphere, Kumar said.

In recent months, Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor and some Punjabi film industry stars have descended on the campus for promoting or shooting their films. Some came with the permission of PU authorities while others brought their roadshow on the campus without permission.

PUTA has now asked the vice chancellor to evolve a system, which can filter what is being showcased to the students.

If Ranbir wants to promote his movie at the Students Centre, he should ask for permission. We want the authorities to draw a line as to what is to be shown. Some time back, a Punjabi movie, Anne Kohre Da..., was shown in the Department of English. Any documentary screening arranged in the Department of Indian Theatre and School of Communication Studies is acceptable, Kumar said.

He said departments like Indian Theatre, where the curriculum deals with the movies, could be shown films.

Their students watch it with a critical eye to learn. But doing an event at the Students Centre is what we object to, he said.

The Students Centre, Stu-C as it is popular among students, is an area with eateries and recreation facilities, which is frequented by students from all teaching departments throughout the day.

The universitys A.C. Joshi Library, which is next to the Students Centre, is most affected when a big event is held there with mikes and even DJ music playing at full volume.

Librarian Raj Kumar said: Many times, when something is happening at the Students Centre involving high volume music systems, groups of students have come up to me complaining about the noise. They are unable to concentrate inside the library. But there is hardly anything I can do.

He gave the example of the latest Lohri celebrations.

On January 13, it was acceptable as almost everyone is involved but some departments around the library celebrated it on January 12 which disturbed the students preparing for competitive examinations, he pointed out.

Research scholar Amanjot Kaur from the Department of Biotechnology said: We have to ignore the fact that there is something happening at the Students Centre because we cant help it. It disturbs us a lot because of the crowd.

Justifying the activities, however, PUs dean for students welfare A.S. Ahluwalia said: As far as the activities at the Students Centre are concerned, they have been granted permission.

Without taking permission, nobody can do anything there. However, we always tell them to keep the volume low so that the neighbouring departments are not disturbed. We will look into the matter since PUTA has requested, but sometimes matters are exaggerated.

Student leaders of Panjab varsity get into campaign mode

Taking time off studies, student leaders of Punjab University have been campaigning for various candidates contesting the Punjab assembly polls.

Some are campaigning for candidates of the ruling SAD-BJP combine, while a few are sweating it out for the Congress candidates. There are
others who have thrown their weight behind the Sanjha Morcha candidates.

Student Organisation of Punjab University (SOPU) president Vikramjeet Singh is no stranger to politics as his father Gurdial Singh is the sarpanch of Middukhera village in Muktsar. He is part of the group campaigning for chief minister Parkash Singh Badal, who is contesting from Lambi constituency. The group has been given the responsibility of two villages.
Talking about his role, Vikramjeet said they had been assigned two villages and were doing door-to-door campaigning. We have been given the responsibility of distributing pamphlets and making people aware by highlighting the achievements of the ruling party, said Vikramjeet.
Besides going door-to-door, the student leaders are putting their university connections to use for pulling crowds and bringing a spark to the campaign.
SOPU leader Barinder Singh Dhillon, along with his associates, is wooing voters in support of Congress candidates Gurchet Singh Bhullar and Arvind Khanna, who are contesting from Khemkaran and Dhuri seats, respectively. Our prime responsibility is to gather crowds; besides, we also take care of the office work, Dhillon said.
The short stint in campaigning has made student leaders realise how difficult it is to convince people. Unlike the university politics, people are aware of whats going on and we cannot fool them, said Students Federation of India president Lovneet Singh Thakur, who is campaigning for Raghunath Singh, candidate of the Sanjha Morcha.
There is a fight for every vote and its not easy to make people vote for your candidate, whereas in the university, convincing students is not that difficult, said Thakur.
The Punjab University Students Union (PUSU) is going all out to support Kuljit Singh Nagra, who is contesting from Fatehgarh Sahib on a Congress ticket. Sumit Goklaney, a senior PUSU member, along with other party workers, is camping in Fatehgarh Sahib to boost the campaign of their former president. Mere participation in campaigning has been a learning experience for us. The approach adopted by the leaders is so mature; there is so much for us to learn and implement at the university level, said Goklaney.
PUSU members of are also supporting the election campaign of Congress candidate Rajwinder Singh Lucky, who is contesting from Balachaur.

New Chief Justice of Gauhati HC sworn in

GUWAHATI, Dec 20 – Justice AK Goel was today sworn-in as the new Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court at Raj Bhawan. He succeeds Justice MB Lokur.

He was administered the oath-of-office by Governor JB Patnaik around 11 am in the presence of host of noted personalities today.

Born on July 7, 1953 at Hissar in Haryana, Justice Goel did his BA (Hons) and LLB from the Punjab University, Chandigarh.

64-yr-old swami completes Ph.D at Panjab University

Chandigarh: The 64-yr-old Swami Rajkumar Verma of Chitvant Ashram in Himachal Pradesh received his Ph.D degree on Friday. The swami has completed his Ph.D at the Panjab University and collected his honorary degree at the 61st convocation of PU. He has clearly showcased that there is no age limit to follow educational aspirations.

Swami Rajkumar Verma was not the only one in his age group as Maharashtrian lecturer Pramod(47) also completed his Ph.D as well. His 21 year old daughter stated that it was really exciting to see her father take to studies at such an age. The convocation witnessed allotment of 578 degrees wherein 409 students were girls.The 61st convocation of Panjab University was organised at the Gymnasium Hall at the university premises. The degrees were allotted to the students of MD, MS, Ph.D, MBA and MeD at the university.

PU inks MoU with Chinas Shanghai University

Chandigarh: In yet another positive move, Panjab University , Chandigarh on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Shanghai University of Political Science and Law (SHUPL), China. The MoU signed is believed to benefit the students and teachers alike by promoting a better understanding between the faculty and students of PU and SHUPL. The MoU also aims at improving quality of education in addition to exploring educational avenues and exchange of tradition and values.

The six member delegation lead by Professor Jin Guohua, President, SHUPL met PU Vice Chancellor Prof RC Sobti at the VC office on Wednesday.Speaking on the occasion, Prof Sobti said, Education is the permanent way towards progress. The MoU will encourage exchange of faculty members and students, joint research activities, participation in seminars and academic meetings. The students will therefore be able to take advantage of the exchange of faculty, labs and other facilities.

Panjab University gears up for UGC NET exam on Dec 24

Chandigarh: Preparations are in full swing at Panjab University and other degree colleges for the UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) exam scheduled to be conducted on December 24. As many as 30 centres have been made across the city; where in 12,743 candidates will appear for the examination. Exam coordinator and HoD Zoology at PU, Prof Neelima R Kumar informed that the university has sent the admit cards to all the candidates.The candidates who fail to receive their admit cards by December 16 can contact the coordinator along with their two photographs, attested by a gazetted officer. A duplicate roll number will be issued to the candidate thereafter, she said.

Also, the visually impaired candidates should also submit their applications for the writer-cum-helper latest by December 19 so that the university can make arrangements to get the writers available to them. None of the candidates will be allowed to bring their own writer for assistance during the examination, Kumar added.

PU issues salary slips for non-existent post

Chandigarh: Punjab University (PU) is possibly the only varsity where salary slips are issued for a post which does not exist in its whole administration. Anil Thakur is a[ppointed as Divisional Engineer in PU. However, a Right To Information (RTI) query revealed that there is no such post in the varsity.

In a reply to an RTI query, PU registrar has written that the constructional department in PU has two Class I posts, one is Executive Engineer and the other is Sub-Divisional Engineer. There is no post in PU in the name of Divisional Engineer, the reply said.

RTI activist Dr Rajiv Singhla, who had filed the RTI application, Anil Thakur was promoted from the post of Sub-Divisional Engineer (Gardening) to the post of Divisional Engineer on April 28, 2011. Adding that there are records to prove this, Singhla said the salary slips issued Thakur state hos post as Divisional Engineer.

Dr Singhla demanded if the varsity has engineers working at the post why does the administration need to hide the fact?

PU students await examination date-sheet

Ludhiana: Students enrolled in postgraduate courses in the Panjab University (PU) are still waiting for their examination time table to be issued. There matter remains uncertain ever since the classes for post graduate students were terminated. There is no information when the exam would begin or when would the date-sheet be issued.The official website of PU was also non-functional throughout the day making it even more difficult for students to get any information on the exam schedule.The meeting of university officials in which the decision to postpone the exam was taken, it was also decided that the exam would be held close to December 8. It was also decided that all students pursuing correspondence courses will also be intimated in the meanwhile and examination centres will be set up. However nothing has been planned as yet which has made both students and teachers a little worried.

Three miscreants held for teasing girls, thrashing coach

Chandigarh: Three girl students of Punjab University (PU) were molested late on Saturday evening.

The girls had gone in a park near the varsity campus to practice Tennis. They will participate in the All India Tennis Tournament in Orissa from November 24. A white coloured Tata Safari entered the park with four boys. They tried to molest and tease the girls with sexual remarks. When their coach Rupinder Singh Michael tried to stop the miscreants, they attacked him and assaulted a charge.

However, Michael was able to call in PU security early enough to get the miscreants nabbed. One of them fled away.

Sukhna Lake becomes death pool yet again

Chandigarh: One of the city s prominent tourist locations is making the news for a possible suicide yet again. The dead bodies of a woman and her infant were found floating over the Sukhna Lake, early on Saturday. The bodies have not been identified yet but the woman is believed to be 30 years old while her son was 2 years in age.

The locals saw the dead bodies and informed the police. The police arrived at the scene and recovered the dead bodies that have now been kept at the morgue of GMSH-16 in the city. The police have also recovered a red-coloured purse along with the bodies that contained Rs 1,000. The police official, Poonam Dilwari, stated that the students of the Punjab University rowing team saw the bodies floating in the lake. It is believed that the dead bodies were in the lake for almost 8-9 hours before being seen by the people.

The police officials stated that the woman held the son tight in her arms. It is also believed that the woman jumped in the lake while holding her son close-by. The police suspect a possible suicide case that may have been enforced after a fight between the couple or family members of the deceased. The deceased have not been identified yet, however, the police have informed the other police stations in the city in order to ascertain their identity.

Second day of PU media fest SOCH

Chandigarh: The annual media festival of Panjab University (PU), SOCH, entered its second day on Thursday in the city.

Participants from various media schools performed in different events of SOCH, PU media festival, on its second day. SOCH provides students opportunities to test their talent, creativity, ingenuity and intellectual capabilities.

On the basis of the SOCH theme Get Guts Going , several events and programmes were held. Coloured faces of performers grabbed attention of the visitors first. These students participated in Colour Me Wild event with creatively designed T-shirts with catchy slogans written on them.

In an event Gone in 90 seconds , students had to speak for 90 seconds on the spot. In a photography contest, the students displayed photos clicked by them.

In another event Blue Print , they made a print ad. In Living Lessons , they showed documentaries.

M Phil student of Mass Communications dept Rupali Chowdhury and her team made an excellent documentary on the history of sculpture Panjab University, Patiala.

We sat near sculptires daily in the university campus. We saw it daily. And all of a sudden we got an idea to make a documentary on it, said Rupali.

Monica Bedi considers me as her bro: Sirphire actor Sonu Bajwa

Chandigarh: Sirphira Punjab University (PU) student leader Sonu Bajwa, who got fame due to his upcoming Punjabi movie Sirphire , said on Thursday that actress Monica Bedi considers him as her younger brother.

He is working with Monica Bedi and Priyanshu Chatterjee (Tum Bin fame) in the movie. Sonu Bajwa has worked in other Hindi and Punjabi movies also in the past. He also said that now onwards, he would be doing negative roles only.

Actor Sonu Bajwa has also worked in upcoming Bollywood love-triangle film Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya , which is set to be released in December. He has worked with actress Genelia D Souza and actor Ritesh Deshmukh in Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya . Sonu is in negative role in the movie.

Sonu said that due to his physical appearance and expressions, he was naturally offered negative roles by movie makers.

I feel more comfortable in such roles as I get easily immersed in negative characters, he said.

Actress Monica Bedi, who got fame due to her association with underworld don Abu Salem, reached Chandigarh city for the launch of Punjabi film Sirfire on Wednesday.

Monica Bedi, during the launch ceremony said, this is for the very first time that she has signed any Punjabi film.

When asked about her past life, Monica said that she wants to come out of it.

Sonu said that he is doing second-lead and negative role in Sirfire. Most scenes of the movie are being shot in Chandigarh. Student politics in colleges makes the plot of the film story. I am doing the role of Pinka, a youth, he said. Priyanshu Chatterjee guides me in acting. I and Monica Bedi often share jokes and she often calls me her younger brother, he said.

On the demand of my director, I reduced my weight by 16 kg from 96 kg within 15 days. I am currently on liquid diet, said the sirphira actor.

Honour killing: Khap Panchayat's new formula for love birds

Ambala: Love birds who are scared of being killed for honour can heave a sigh of relief, as of now. Khap Panchayats, which have been continously demanding amendment in Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, to disallow same gotra marriages, have come up with a new formula for lovers that would not only escape them from honour killing, but also not tarnish the image of these notorious caste councils.

But, the idea does not seem to work either for the law or the villagers.
According to Khap Panchayats, a boy can be adopted by his maternal uncle to change his gotra if he wants to have a same-gotra marriage.

The case relates to Jind, one of the oldest districts of Haryana, where a youth eloped with a girl of same gotra as his family was against their marriage. However, their family members traced the couple after a few days. Both the familes approached the office of Jind deputy commissioner for legal guidance when the teenagers did not show any signs of relent.

They told the officials, on condition of anonymity, that both the families have no objection to the same-gotra marriage, but are scared of Khap Panchayats. They said the family wants boy's maternal uncle to adopt him in order to change his gotra and solemnise their marriage. According to Khap Panchayats, marriages cannot be allowed in same gotra as the girl is considered sister of the boy.

However, villagers are not yet convinced, but are still not underestimating the idea that can go a long way in preventing honour killings and eradicating castism from the society.

Panjab University professor Manjit Singh says, "Caste does not undergo a change by adoption. However, the change in gotra depends on how sane khaps members are." This solution of Kaps Panchayats also cannot be brought under law. According to law, a teenager cannot be adopted.

After Hisar, Team Anna to focus on Uttar Pradesh elections: Kiran Bedi

Chandigarh: Reacting to the result of Hisar by-polls, Kiran Bedi said that Team Anna did not want to take any credit for Congress defeat and it was the electorate which made their choice clear. She said that people want a strong Lokpal bill which was evident from the election results.Kiran Bedi said that Team Annas next target is the upcoming Uttar Pradesh elections and she herself would be going to the state on Saturday. Kiran Bedi added that she would address rallies on Saturday and Sunday and urge people to only vote for those candidates who are in favour of the Jan Lokpal bill.Kiran Bedi made the remarks while talking to media persons at the Panjab University where she had gone to release a book written by her sister Anu Peshawaria.Reacting on Prashant Bhushans remark on Kashmir, Kiran Bedi said that his views do not represent the views of Team Anna. She also critised the recent attacks on Prashant Bhushan and said that violence is not the way to register protest.

Kiran Bedi to visit Chandigarh on October 17

Chandigarh: Kiran Bedi, first woman Indian Police Service (IPS) officer in India and an important member of Team Anna, will be coming to Chandigarh on October 17.

She will be in Chandigarh for the inauguration ceremony of the book written by her sister Anu Peshawari. The book is about the condition of Indian women who marry non-resident Indians (NRI) settled in the United States.

The inauguration ceremony will be held in Law Auditorium of Panjab University.

Chandigarh s garbage plant raises a stink

Chandigarh: Chandigarh’s reputation is taking a smelly beating. A lot of stink is being raised - environmentally and politically - over the city s experiment with a solid waste processing plant set up by a leading private company to deal with the city s garbage.

The stink from the garbage processing plant, being run by the private sector Jaypee Associates, has become a worrying point for city residents, the civic body and environmentalists ever since it was inaugurated in 2008.

The smell is so strong that you can detect it from almost 10 km away. I don t know what the authorities are doing. The garbage plant has become a blot on the city instead of solving its waste problem, businessman Rakesh Sharma said.

The other day I thought there was a burning smell in my car and I got out. It turned out that the entire place was stinking, he said.

The garbage processing plant was set up on 10 acres of land in Dadu Majra area on the outskirts of this union territory. The land was given by the Chandigarh administration to the company for setting up the plant.

Senior councillors and officials of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation, who went at the expense of the Jaypee Associates to Germany to study similar solid waste processing plants, are now saying the plant and its equipment in Chandigarh is not the same as what they were shown in Germany.

Those who went on the trip told an inquiry committee that the machinery and equipment installed here is not the same as shown to them in Germany, councillor Chandermukhi Sharma, who headed the committee said.

Some studies done by the PGIMER (Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research) and others have shown that these gases being emitted are carcinogenic, Chandermukhi said.

The municipal corporation is doing everything to solve the problem, said Chandigarh Mayor Ravinder Pal Singh.

The garbage at the site is not being processed properly. That is leading to the foul smell in various parts of the city. Residents of nearby areas of the plant are the worst affected, the mayor said.

The processing plant was to process 500 tonnes of garbage every day but has been unable to take care of even 300-400 tonnes of garbage so far.

A senior municipal corporation official said that a special committee will be formed shortly from the city s garbage and sanitation committee to visit a garbage processing plant in Surat town of Gujarat. The plant there is also being privately run.

The garbage disposal is not being done properly, which is leading to this foul smell in the city. I don t understand under what conditions the private company was given the contract for this plant. They have failed, R.K. Kohli, chairman of the Department of Botany at Panjab University said.

Public funds have been misused and no one knows who to blame, he added.

The city is known to be pollution free. This smell is not desirable. This kind of a thing does not even happen in small cities. Though the city has the best green cover in the country, even these trees cannot do anything about the stink coming from the processing plant, said Kohli, who has authored books on the tree cover and environment in Chandigarh.

Company officials have refused to say anything on the issue.

Sources in the municipal corporation said the multi-million-rupee Jaypee group, which is majorly into cement manufacturing, infrastructure, power projects and other areas, is seeking international carbon credits.

Opposition party councillors blame the Congress, which rules the municipal body, for allowing the setting up of the plant without proper parameters.

Mandira Bedi in Chandigarh

Chandigarh: The students corner of Panjab University (PU) was abuzz with cricket match noise. Nokai Champions League 20-20 campaigning was being held in the PU. Mandira Bedi was present during the entire campaigning.

Mandira Bedi, wearing a blue-coloured T-shirt and black-coloured track pants, looked very comfortable and energetic. She said that she was associated with a cricket project after a long time. She stayed away from the limelight because she was pregnant. She said that she was fit now and that she would be seen in projects related to cricket. Talking about her son, she said that her son, Veer, was just two months old now. She said that it was not easy managing family and professional life together, but she was trying to cope up with it.

She said that she came to Chandigarh after a long time and PU reminded her of her college days in St. Xaviers College, Mumbai.

About Air Cricket championship, she told students that cricket was played by everyone and said that the person whol looked good on screen while playing cricket would get a chance to become a part of Priyanka Chopra s championship team; thus, the winner would be seen with Priyanka Chopra during the T-20 final match.

Farmers suicides have done much to burst the bubble

Punjab has traditionally been known as the granary of the country. But since the last two decades, that reality is under attack from a variety of sources, not the least of them being from socially conscious intellectuals who have pursued the story of farmer suicides in the state. The investigation into the suicide trail was accidental.

In the late 1980s, the Movement against State Repression (MASR) headed by Inderjit Singh Jaijee, constituted to take up cases of human rights violation by state security forces, also started to probe farmer suicides. Since Jaijees ancestral village falls in this area, he had first hand knowledge of the growing crisis. He had the assistance of her daughter Aman Sidhu who helped her father in the extensive research needed. The outcome is a detailed exposition in the form of a book Debt and Death in Rural India-The Punjab Story.

Sadly for them, Aman met a tragic end along with her daughter in a road accident even� before the book was published. According to a 2009 report commissioned by the government of Punjab, there were an estimated close to 3,000 suicides among farmers and farm labourers in just two of Punjabs 20 districts. When research into this dark side of the Punjab story started, Aman was 34 years old and had just returned from England where she had done her MBA after a Masters degree in Sociology from the Panjab University.

Later she converted her study into a PhD thesis. Collating facts proved difficult and even enumeration of suicides was not easy. Aman Sidhu set up Rescue and Revival Mission aimed at keeping the children of suicide victims in schools. The documentation work started in 1988 from Jaijees ancestral village, Chural. Later people started contacting him and his daughter with information about suicides.

We also started bringing this problem to the attention of the people at the highest level in the government, the universities and the Reserve Bank of India. K. R. Narayanan, then President of India who responded sympathetically, Jaijee remembers. Farmers suicides in Punjab have been reported essentially from the Malwa region which has, ironically, dominated Punjabs political scene for the last about two decades. No surprises there. The states politicians have traditionally tried to brush farmer suicides under the carpet even though unseemly facts were beginning to emerge during the third term of Parkash Singh Badal as chief minister of Punjab beginning 1997. For the first few years, the government refused to even acknowledge such cases. But the MASR was the first to draw the governments attention towards the crisis.

Hockey captain Rajpal day out at PU

Chandigarh: The paltry reward given by Hockey India to the players of the national team has certainly saddened them, but has failed to kill their spirit.

An example of the same is team captain Rajpal, who led India to win Asian Hockey Championship.

He was at the Panjab University on Wednesday where he celebrated the win with his own people.

Rajpal also played volleyball matches with his friends as mark of celebration.

Here are a few pictures of Rajpal playing volleyball.

Photo courtesy: Ajay Sharma

20000 unclaimed degrees at PU Certificate Branch

Some predate independence; hundreds also returned after convocation since 2005

These days Panjab University (PU) is grappling with an unusual problem, for which it is hard-pressed to find a solution. With an increase in the number of enrollments each year, the degree bank that houses unclaimed and undelivered degrees has also reached a record number of around 20,000 degrees that are still waiting to be handed over to the candidates.

The unclaimed degrees at the University Certificate Branch has been adding up since the time of partition, with a few degrees even older than 1947. This number of 20,000 is in addition to hundreds of degrees returned to each department of the University, since 2005, after the annual convocation is over.

“To unload the increasing burden of the Certificate Branch, the university involved each department in maintaining these documents. As in the last six years, undelivered or unclaimed degrees are returned to the respective department of the candidate,” said the Controller of Examinations Prof A K Bhandari.

Apart from degrees of its own candidates, till 1968 degrees of candidates of various affiliated colleges, private and other candidates were also handed over by the Panjab University alone. Later, each college started holding its separate convocation function to hand over degrees to its students as the University opted to transfer these documents to the respective institute, each year.

“Last week, the branch received an application claiming the degree of Kulwant Singh, a University candidate, now residing in Ludhiana. He had completed his BSc Agriculture in 1966. The application was put forward by one of his family members. With the kind of book-keeping and maintenance of data, it hardly took a day to find the degree,” revealed one of the senior officials of the Certificate Branch.

The reasons for piling up of degrees cited by the officials vary from candidates, of whom majority are female, getting married and settled in some other state or abroad. Due to the gap of one year in getting a degree after one has completed the course which was even more earlier, candidates fail to turn up for their degrees. Those who have already settled professionally also rarely bother to claim their degrees.

The staff of this branch claimed that the number of undelivered degrees and other related documents has been on a rise, each year. 'We have stored very old degrees and gazettes in different sections known as pigeon racks marked with corresponding year. Different registers are maintained for each convocation indicating which candidate had taken the degree and who had not,' added the official.

Concerned over the increasing number of unclaimed degrees, the University in 2005 introduced the concept of returning all the undelivered degrees to the concerned departments. While, another facility that was introduced in the same year was delivering the degrees of top three candidates who fail to turn up for the convocation to their residence by post.

Degree mela
With a record number of 20,000 degrees, the university authorities are contemplating whether to organise another ‘degree mela’ for these unclaimed degrees. A similar kind of event was organised in 2005-06 where unclaimed degrees were handed over to candidates. Not many takers turned up for the earlier mela, where around 100 degrees were given to the claimants without charging any fee. This time the authorities want to advertise the event on a better and larger scale in the hope of receiving a better response.

Justice Vikramajit Sen likely to be next Karnataka Chief Justice

Bangalore: Justice Vikramajit Sen of the Delhi high court is likely to be the next chief justice of the Karnataka high court. The current chief justice, Justice Jagdish Singh Khehar, has been elevated to the Supreme Court. President Pratibha Patil's orders were received on Saturday.

Lawyers will hold a farewell function for Justice Khehar on Monday in the high court. Later, Justice Sen will take oath as senior-most judge in the high court.Justice Khehar took over as Karnataka HC chief justice on August 8, 2010, after Justice PD Dinakaran was transferred to Sikkim.A tough taskmaster, Justice Khehar was elevated to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 1999 and has delivered significant judgments. While heading a full bench, Justice Khehar's recent and most talked-about judgment was on the importance of unshorn hair for Sikhs.

Born on August 28, 1952, Justice Khehar graduated in Science from Government College, Chandigarh, in 1974 and pursued a degree in law from Punjab University in 1977 and an LLM degree later

Ahead of student polls, war zone at Panjab University

Chandigarh: A bulletproof armoured vehicle and commandos with automatic weapons, 600 security personnel and sealed gates, post-midnight raids on hostels and over 100 closed circuit television cameras (CCTVs)... No, this is not a riot zone but the scene at the Panjab University (PU) where student elections will be held on Friday.Ahead of elections to the Panjab University Central Students Council (PUCSC), the 533 acre campus is nothing less than a battlefield with university authorities and Chandigarh Police unwilling to take chances with the law and order situation.Given the bloody trail of clashes between students organisations, groups and leaders in recent years, the election for office bearers of PUCSC and departmental representatives are taking place under the strict eye of the law.Two of three gates into the university have been sealed till the election process is over.

PU Security Head PK Dhawan said, The security this time for the elections is much tighter as we do not want to take any chances. We have installed over 100 CCTV cameras. Nearly 600 security personnel are on duty. Last week, police and PU officials knocked at the doors of hostellers, especially the boys hostels, at midnight or early in the day and rounded up nearly 100 youngsters staying their illegally.Sector 11 station house officer (SHO) Gurmukh Singh said, We have given a list of 120 notorious students to PU authorities whose activities need to be watched. Police booked 35 student leaders in 2011 following clashes. In the last five years, more than 100 leaders have been detained for violence.The main active groups on the campus include the PU Students Union (PUSU), Students Organisation of PU (SOPU), Indian National Students Organisation (INSO) and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).Entry to the campus, the main one located in Sector 14, has been restricted. Every vehicle is checked and the young have to show their identity and explain the purpose of visit.

Student leaders are livid
SOPU leader Robin Brar said, This security is unwarranted. The authorities have put unnecessary restrictions on campaigning. The election has been robbed of the colourful atmosphere. PU officials defend the restrictions.

This year, the campaigning has been peaceful so far because of the security, Dean for Students Welfare Amrik Singh Ahluwalia said.However, not everyone agrees. This kind of security is not required. The authorities should understand that besides the students, hundreds of other residents, including teachers and other staff, live on the campus. They get harassed unnecessarily, PU Teachers Association (PUTA) president Akshay Kumar said.Of the over 13,420 voters on the campus, 70 per cent are young women.

Cops raid PU campus for student elections, nab outsiders

Chandigarh: In wake of the upcoming student elections, the police on Tuesday morning raided the Panjab University.

During the course of the raid, the police nabbed several outsiders and took them away in their vehicles.

The outsiders were not even given a chance to wear their clothes, so they were taken in bermudas and slippers itself.

To ensure a safe and secure election on September 2, the administration has taken adequate measures while the police have stepped up security in the campus.

The availability of the outsiders despite these measures has raised several questions.

Identity cards all the students were also checked by the police personnel.

Here are some pictures of the raid taken by photographer Satanshu Sharma:

PU student council elections likely on September 2

Chandigarh: The student council elections will be held at the Panjab University and other colleges of the city on September 2.

According to PU, the Chandigarh administration has agreed to hold the elections on September 2.

However, the university is yet to get a letter about it from the administration, but is likely to be received by Friday.

Following this, an official announcement will be made in this regard.

The elections process is likely to be kicked off by August 29 itself.

The PU had in the beginning of August written to the administration, seeking permission to hold the elections on September 2 or 9.

The code of conduct for the elections will be applicable as the announcement is made.

PU student council elections likely on September 2

Pro-Hazare protesters picket Manmohan Singh s Chandigarh house

New Delhi: Pro-Anna Hazare agitators on Tuesday held a protest outside the private residence of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the upscale Sector 11.

The protesters openly defied prohibitory orders enforced on Monday by the additional district magistrate outside the house.

Nearly 25-30 protesters, including women, carried the national flag and posters and banners and staged a sit-in outside the house.

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Anna s Supporters protest outside MPs houses across India

Manmohan Singh used to reside on the Panjab University campus in 1950s and 1960s where he was first a student and later a faculty member in the department of economics. He became professor in the department at the age of 32.

The authorities had on Monday prohibited the assembly of five or more people in an area of 200 metres from the house of the prime minister, three union ministers - Kapil Sibal, Pawan Kumar Bansal and Ambika Soni - and Congress MP Manish Tewari.

All of them have their private residences in the city.

Another set of protesters on Tuesday laid siege of a road in Sector 28 near the residence of union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Bansal, who is also the Chandigarh MP.

India Against Corruption: Law students boycott classes; police use trick to crush protest

Chandigarh: Law students of Panjab University on Wednesday boycotted their classes to show their solidarity with Anna Hazare s India Against Corruption campaign.

However, with an intension to crush the classes boycott protest, five student leaders of the university were detained for four hours by the police in law faculty director s chamber.

According to sources, five student leaders – Akash Singla, Abhishek, Harsimran Singh, Ishan and Radhamohan -- at around 10am on Wednesday entered university s LLB classrooms and appealed to the students to boycott their classes. On their call the students left their classes to show their solidarity with the Anna s campaign.

College administration and the police first called these leaders for a talk but apparently they were detained by the police in the director s chamber, sources said. Their mobile phones were also seized by the police to crush the boycott campaign.

Students waited standing outside their classes for their leaders but could not see their leaders coming out as they were detained for hours. Whole university premise was besieged by the police. Finally, the students had to return to their homes, said sources.

People stage protests in Punjab, Haryana

Chandigarh: People from all walks of life, including advocates and academicians, today took to streets at several places in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana voicing their support to civil society members in their crusade against corruption.
In Chandigarh, several intersections and round abouts were blocked by people, including advocates, officials said.
A long queue of stranded vehicles was seen on several roads in Chandigarh in the wake of blockades laid by people.
In Punjab and Haryana, people took to streets and raised slogans in favour of civil society members and also blocked traffic.

Braving inclement weather at some places in the twin states of Punjab and Haryana, the people sat at several roads blocking the traffic.The protesters alleged that the arrest of Gandhian Anna Hazare and others is an "undemocratic step" of the UPA government.Activists of an NGO 'Awaaz' raised slogans against the UPA government at sector 7 and 8 traffic junction.

At the rally ground in Chandigarh, another NGO 'India Against Corruption' decided to sit on hunger strike in support of the civil society members.NGO's founder member Davinder Sharma told reporters that five people from the NGO would sit on relay hunger strike till the government comes out with a strong Lokpal bill.

"I don't feel that I am living in world's largest democracy," Shammy Choudhary, a law student with Panjab University, said.

Meanwhile, security has been enhanced in both the states and their joint capital Chandigarh in view of protests and to prevent any eventuality.

Chandigarh: SBI launches its first self service kiosk

Chandigarh: Some good news for the account holders of the Chandigarh city. From now on, they need not wait in long queues for upgrading their passbooks or any other bank related work.

The State Bank of India (SBI) has installed its first Self Service Kiosk machine at Panjab University.

With the help of this, the customers can now upgrade their passbooks and request for cheque book. They can also exercise facilities such as third party transfer and online FD.

SBI Chief General Manager SK Sehgal said the facility is being started in four branches of Chandigarh city.

He added the machine will soon be installed at ATM centres of the city.

Dish served with fly in PU canteen

Chandigarh: The students of Panjab University were shocked to see that they got a value addition in a dish served to them. The dish served to them at student centre canteen contained a fly.

The students immediately informed about the entire incident to the management and demanded strict action against the stall owner.

The owner as a result immediately removed the dish from the menu list. The management has imposed a fine of Rs 1000 against the stall owner. The owner has been told that strict action will be taken against him incase the same is repeated.

Relief for PU students as fee goes down

Chandigarh: Panjab University (PU) has decided to waive-off the extra burden of examination fees and practical charges, along with the annual fees, for its students appearing in the coming November and April exams.

This major decision was taken after the varsity received Central grants.

Students of Panjab University and its 188 affiliated colleges had been sharing an extra burden of 10 per cent annual hike in their examination and practical fees for the last 10 years. But after a long wait, students have got rid of this additional burden.

Around 2.25 lakh students would benefit from PU s positive move in the wake of the unacceptable fee hikes. Earlier, the students had to pay the examination fee between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,500, in addition to practical charges for science and professional courses.

After the semester system was introduced two years back, the students have been left with no option but to take double burden of the annual fee hikes and paying it twice a year. Students had already protested against this fee structure.

This benefit extends to correspondence students and private candidates also.

PU VC, syndicate members argue over vacant position in university

Chandigarh: There are many positions lying vacant in the Panjab University (PU). There was an argument between PU Vice Chancellor (VC) RC Sobti and members of the syndicate members during the meeting of the syndicate on Sunday.
The argument was so serious that syndicate member Dr Ravindra Nath Sharma stood up to walk out of the meeting, but decided against it when other members persuaded him. At the end of the meeting, Sobti said that no time frame could be given for the filling of the vacant positions.

At the moment, positions such as controller of examination, registrar, public relations director and others are lying vacant.

The syndicate meeting could not decide on the qualifications desired for the post of public relations director. Earlier, it was considered that candidates with five years of experience in teaching or journalism could apply for the position. However, the members objected to it by saying that it was a professional position and should not be associated with teaching.

Punjab varsity V-C shot at, critical

An unidentified gunman on Monday shot Dr Jasbir Singh Ahluwalia, vice chancellor of newly-formed SGPCs Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, leaving him crtically injured. The bullet reportedly pierced through the temple and got lodged in his jaw line. Ahluwalia was referred to the PGI, where his condition was stated to be critical. Meanwhile, the assailant, in his mid-forties having a long beard managed to flee unchallenged from the campus. Unconfirmed reports say he was raised pro- Khalistan slogans before leaving.

Pertinent, the Panthic and radical organizations were opposing the appointment of Dr Ahluwalia as founder vice chancellor of University, due to controversy of Saru Rana sexual harassment case, in which latter was acquitted in 2010.The incident occurred at 3.30pm when the vice chancellor reached the reception area to pass instructions to his staff. The assailant was reportedly waiting there and got attention of the VC after calling him.

Giving information, SSP Ranbir Singh Khatra said that after grabbing attention by calling VC Sahib the assailant fired first round in air and second toward VCs head. The VC tried miserable to duck, but it was too late.Rajwinder Singh, a private security man with vice chancellor and one of the eyewitnesses said, It happened so quickly. VC sahib was talking on his mobile phone while walking. I heard the gun shot fired in air the before I could react the second shot was fired. I rushed to pick up him and the assailant fled, he added.

Following the incident, the Police sealed the university - the first academic session of which was inaugurated by CM PS Badal on July 25. DC and SSP closely inspected the spot. SSP said that there was no CCTV in the reception. Thus, there is little information available about the assailant. We have registered a case of attempt to murder under Section 307 IPC in this regard and are tracking the mobile call details of entire area to look for a clue, he said.

It is pertinent to mention here that Dr Ahluwalia had held the post of vice-chancellor of Punjabi University in Patiala from May 1999 to April 2002. He was sacked from the post by the Capt Amarinder Singh government as university staff and students had been demonstrating for a long time seeking his removal. That time, Dr Ahluwalia was facing two case one relating to attempt to murder and other attempt to rape and outrage the modesty of a student. He is former civil services officer and a leading Punjabi poet.

Meanwhile, the SGPC President Avtar Singh Makkar, who is also chancellor of University, has condemned the incident.

PMs missing degree: varsity suspends one, orders probe

Chandigarh: Panjab University authorities on Saturday suspended an employee and ordered a five-member committee to probe the omission of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh s name in the list of distinguished people awarded honorary doctorates in the past over 60 years.

The list of 74 distinguished people, who have been awarded various honorary degrees by the university, was supplied recently by the university to Right to Information (RTI) activist Rajinder K. Singla.

Manmohan Singh was awarded the Doctor of Laws degree (honoris causa) at a special convocation November 2009. But this information was missing from an otherwise complete list of 74 names provided to the applicant.

We have taken serious note of this lapse and the concerned employee has been placed under suspension. Further action will be taken as per the recommendations of the committee , PU registrar A.K. Bhandari said on Saturday.

Manmohan Singh was a student of the university in the 1950s and later joined service here as a lecturer in economics. He rose to become a professor in the same department at the young age of 32 before leaving the university.

PU declares M.Phil entrance test schedule

Chandigarh: The Panjab University has declared the entrance test and counseling schedule for all its M.Phil courses.

The entrance test to get into Department of Ancient History, Culture and Archaeology will be held in the department itself on August 3.

The Public Administration entrance test will be held at 10 in the morning on August 2. Similary, the Department of Physical Education will be conducting a test on August 5.

The students who wish to study Political Science in the prestigious Panjab University need to appear for a test on July 29.

What happened to PM s honorary degree?

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is undoubtedly one of the most distinguished students to have ever studied at Panjab University. But his name seems to be curiously missing from a list of those given an honorary doctorate of law degree.

A Right to Information (RTI) inquiry by activist Rajinder K. Singla shows that the prime minister s name does not figure in the list of those honoured by the university with a Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) degree since 1949.

However, it s common knowledge that the university had organised a special convocation for its most distinguished student Nov 3, 2009, and conferred on him the same degree.

The university had hosted a special convocation on November 3, 2009, to award a Doctor of Laws (honoris causa), to Manmohan Singh, incurring huge public money for the event, Singla said.

The registration branch of the university has disclosed that a total of 74 honoris causa doctorate degrees have been awarded by the university in the field of law, literature, science and oriental learning since 1949 till February 2011.

As per the RTI reply, no individual has so far been awarded twice with such honorary degrees. Accordingly, Dr Manmohan Singh has been awarded with only D.Litt. on March 12, 1983, but not any Doctor of Laws, Singla said.

But the activist said that in the case of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh alone the university has conferred on the same person two degrees honoris causa - a Doctor of Literature (D.Litt.) and a Doctor of Laws.

I cannot understand why the university is trying to hide information about conferring two honoris causa degrees on Manmohan Singh. I think that PU authorities take RTI information very casually, he said.

PU Registrar A.K. Bhandari, however, says it could be a factual error.

The Doctor of Laws was awarded to the prime minister in 2009. It could be a case of factual error in the information provided through RTI, Bhandari admitted.

Singla also pointed out that even the prime minister s official website does not mention anything about his Doctor of Laws degree, though all other degrees are mentioned.

Manmohan Singh was a student at the university in the 1950s and later joined the Department of Economics here. He went on to become a professor in the department at the young age of 32.

The university had in 2009 also announced the setting up of a Dr Manmohan Singh chair in the economics department -- the first instance of a chair being established in the name of a living personality.

The university has so far awarded Doctor of Laws degree to 25 people, including the country s first home minister Vallabhbhai Patel (1949), former prime minister Indira Gandhi (1973), former prime minister Inder Kumar Gujral (1999) and Union Minister Kapil Sibal (2006), among others.

No record of Prime Minister s doctorate at Panjab University

Chandigarh: The Panjab University does not have any record of the doctorate of law conferred by it on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

The doctorate was conferred by the university in December 2009. If the records of the university are to be believed, no such degree was given to the prime minister.

However, apart from this case, the university contains all the records of such honours given by it between 1949 and 2011. This fault by the university came to light after RTI activist Dr R K Singla obtained information regarding it under the provisions of the act.It must be noted that the prime minister is also an alumnus of the university.

Panjab University VC asks department heads to get serious with placements

Chandigarh: Underlining that providing placement to students is an important task, Panjab University (PU) Vice-Chancellor Prof. RC Sobti has directed all the heads of various departments to start giving special attention towards arranging for placement from the start of the new session itself.During a meeting with the departmental heads on Friday, Sobti reiterated the need to take the issue of placement of students seriously. The VC said in the present context, it is university s job to assure that talented students are well placed. Prof. Sobti also directed all the heads to start working in that direction from the beginning of the new academic session.He also asked the concerned staff to prepare the placement brochure with every detail in it regarding placements in the university.Apart from that the VC also suggested the department heads to arrange special lectures of industry experts from time to time so that students get valuable inputs on the needs of the present industry.While pointing out that the curriculum should be according to the present day needs and ability of students, Prof Sobti said there is a need of more open communication between students and teachers.

Self-financing courses: A college-run anarchy

Ludhiana: Colleges running self-financing courses have come under the scanner for the arbitrary fees being charged from the students. Some of the colleges are charging three times the money set by the Panjab University. With not many colleges in the city running such specialised courses, the helpless students are left with little choice but to take admission on the desired fees. However, the students from weaker economic sections have to often give up the hope of taking up the subject of their choice, owing to the high fees being charged.A course like MSC (Master of Science) has varied fees; one college charges Rs 12000, another Rs 14000; a third one Rs 15000 while one has it as high as Rs 33000. The Panjab University has set its fees for MSC has Rs 12000.According to the rules, the colleges can set their own fee structure for the self-financing courses but this has to be on a ‘no-profit-no-loss’ basis. However, this is being flouted openly and neither the university nor the college officials have raised a voice against it so far.

Panjab University to have four new colleges

Chandigarh: Like the Delhi University, Panjab University will also have new colleges. In addition to its regional centres, Panjab University will have four colleges in Punjab. Classes in the colleges will start from 1 August.According to the special project of the University Grants Commission (UGC), Panjab University has been given the responsibility to open four colleges. These colleges will be managed by Punjab University.The UGC will take care of the expenses of the colleges.In the first session of these colleges, classes of BA, B. Com and BSc will initiate. Other courses will be launched in these colleges in the coming years.

Online tenders invited for Punjab University s dream project

Chandigarh: Tenders will be invited online for the construction of the biggest auditorium in Chandigarh Tricity -- Chandigarh, Panchkula and Mohali. Online tenders have been invited for the construction of this multi-purpose auditorium so as to avoid any hurdle.In the past one and half years, tenders have been invited three times, but after the controversy about tenders came to light, it was decided that tenders would not be invited personally.

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh had laid the foundation stone of this multi-purpose auditorium one and a half years ago, but construction work has still not started.Online tenders have been invited to complete the auditorium as per schedule so that work can be carried out in a transparent manner.

PU professors present papers in Switzerland

Dr Jyoti Rattan, Assistant Professor in Law, Department of Laws, and Dr Vijay Rattan, Professor of Public Administration, both from Panjab University, presented their paper at the International Congress of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) on the topic A Critical Analysis of Administration of Information Technology Regulatory Authorities in India: International and National Legal Prespective. at Lausanne, Switzerland.

B.Ed correspondence admission process begins

Ludhiana: The Panjab Universitys online admission process for B.Ed correspondence course has begun.

Those interested in this two year course need to register themselves between July 12 to July 30.

The aspirants can log on to the official website of the university and fill up their forms.The interested candidates can send Rs 300 demand draft either on the name of Registrar, Panjab University. They can even submit their forms at Assistant Registrars office till August 7.

Have unfulfilled B.Com dreams? Hurry, Panjab University has vacant seats

Chandigarh: The nation-wide craze for B.Com courses in colleges seems to have had a negative impact on the Panjab University. Generally, the seats in the B.Com courses are the first to be filled up, but in a reverse trend many colleges in the Panjab University have not had sufficient admissions in these courses.Many colleges have ample number of vacant seats in the B.Com courses, especially in the reserved categories.

Now the university plans to convert the reserved seats into those in general category. This decision was taken by the Centralised Admission Committee when they noticed number of admissions falling well short of the seats available.

Students from the general category will be given these vacant seats now on the basis of merit.

Punjab University results likely to be delayed

Chandigarh: The final year results of graduation courses in Punjab University are likely to be delayed as the varsity does not have adequate staff to check the answer sheets. The exams for the courses were conducted in April-May.Results of post graduation courses are also likely to get delayed due to lack of checking staff. The university had faced similar situation last year. The PU senate in 2009 had issued a directive asking each teachers to check at least 250 papers. The senate also offered extra incentive for the job. However, the offer failed to lure the teaching staff.

The delay in results will land the students in trouble as admission in post graduate courses will start soon start in different universities.

Violence in PU as two students unions clash

Chandigarh: The rivalry between student bodies in the city does not seem to be ending. After the recent incident witnessed in the DAV college where there was a violent clash between students, a similar confrontation was seen in the Panjab University campus.

Members of the Students Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU) and Panjab University Students Union (PUSU) had a confrontation on Friday afternoon in the university campus.

The university authorities had to call police to prevent the situation from getting out of control. It was only after the police intervention that the volatile situation was defused.

Now, CET qualifiers need to apply online

Chandigarh: From now on, Panjab University common entrance test (CET) qualifiers need to apply online.

As per official sources, the students need to apply online at the official website of Panjab University.

After applying online, the students need to submit the print copy of the online application form to Panjab University CET coordinator.

The applications have to be submitted at Panjab University s Department of Environment Studies by 5 pm on June 30. The online application submission procedure will come to an end at 4 pm on June 30.

Till date, more than 2300 students have submitted their documents after applying online.

Sham of a Lab

Sham of a Lab From the Amar Singh phone tapping incident to the BMW hit and run case, from the Jessica Lal murder case to Shivani Bhatnagar murder, forensic findings have played a key role in nailing culprits in hundreds of such cases. Courts consider forensic evidence vital to the fate of a case. And courts take these evidences into consideration while delivering judgments. Needless to say, forensic reports can seriously change the fate of a case. In BMW case, accused Sanjeev Nanda got the breather when a forensic expert, an important witness to the case, maintained that the finger marks found on the steering wheel were not matching those of the accused. In the same way, Rahul Mahajan was let off because forensic experts recorded the statement claiming that the toxic substance recovered from Rahuls house was heroin and not anything else that would have increased the quantum of the punishment. These examples are enough to show how important forensic evidences are.

But today we raise a vital question. Are these so-called experts qualified to handle such sensitive cases?

Now imagine a scenario where the forensic expert conducting a DNA test has never known how a DNA strand looks like. Or the man doing the lie detector test has no expertise in conducting such tests. It might sound stupid or outright scary: anything but true. But the scariest part is that it is true. This is the story of the Delhi-based Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).

Few weeks back, FSL had published an advertisement inviting applications for appointment of 36 senior scientific officers (SSOs) through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

These openings were in different departments including biology, physics, chemistry, document and lie detection. The UPSC, in this regard, had published the advertisements in Employment News from February 28 to March 6. Under the qualification section, it was mentioned that an applicant must possess a Masters degree in the concerned subject with relevant experience of three to five years in the field.

However, it has been found out that most of the appointees did not have the required experience where as a few of them went to the length of furnishing false certificates. The question arises that why doesnt the agency concerned conduct a thorough background check of the applicants for such important positions. And this is when none other than the UPSC conducts the examination. The interesting part is that the Delhi governments home department had categorically said in its communique that two of the applicants were not qualified for the post. However, the UPSC chose to ignore the communication and appointed them following interviews. They continue to work at FSL. In another case, some of the applicants had previously worked on daily or contract basis whereas FSL awarded them full employee certificates. Naturally, the role of FSL comes into question as well. It becomes evident how corrupt and irresponsible the appointment process has been for this Rohini-based lab. Sham of a Lab FSL was established in 1995. In the beginning, it was under Delhi Police. Later, it was shifted under the purview of the home department of Delhi government. It has seven divisions, namely ballistics, biology, chemistry, document, lie detection, physics and a photo unit.

The ballistics division takes care of investigations related to weapons of crime such as firearms, cartridges, explosives etc. The biology division takes care of liquids, skeletons, DNA and crimes such as rape and murder and helps in zeroing on the culprit. The chemistry division is responsible for all sorts of drug-related investigations and the study of viscera. The physics division comes handy in investigating hit and run cases, road accidents and investigating materials such as cement, sand, bricks, mortar and plastics. The document division investigates handwriting, typewriting, printed matter, seals, stamps, overwriting, age of documents, bank drafts, cheques, receipts, wills, affidavits, bail bonds, lottery tickets, agreement, passport, currency etc. Apart from this, cyber crimes are also investigated here. The lie detection division similarly takes care of polygraphy tests which help in corroborating statements of witnesses, plaintiffs and the accused. The photo unit division takes care of photographic evidences in general and photographic evidences of the scene of crime in particular.

In such a sensitive institution, a small mistake can turn an innocent into guilty and a criminal into innocent. But in complete disregard to the sensitivity of the matter, this institution has become an epitome of corruption and mismanagement. Sham of a Lab We are talking about a few candidates who not only submitted fake certificates but were singularly underqualified for the posts. However, these candidates were appointed in utmost disregard of the laid-out norms. Imrana applied for the post of SSO in biology division. Her experience certificate was accompanied by a certificate from Perfect Analytical Lab situated at Manish Twin Plaza, Sector 9, Plot No 8, Dwarka which vouched that Imrana has worked there for close to three years. The background check was done and she was appointed. However the reply to an application filed under the Right To Information Act (RTI) filed in this regard states that the Perfect Analytical Lab that issued the experience certificate to Imrana does not exist. MCD, in its reply, has said that there is an apartment complex at the address mentioned. Similarly, another applicant, Loktongbai Babito Devi, also applied for the post of senior scientific officer in the biology division. She submitted an experience certificate from FSL, Manipur, where she claimed she worked from the year 2002 to 2004. She was promptly interviewed and appointed for the post. However, an RTI application filed in Manipur, FSL, found that no such individual has ever worked there.

In the same division, Sunita Suman was also selected as a senior scientific officer. According to the documents submitted by her, she claimed she worked in the chemistry division of the same FSL as scientific associate on a contract basis. In her application, she said she worked as scientific assistant. FSL on its part issued two experience certificates and both of them were issued on the same day. Both of them had the signature of director V. K. Goyal and both of them had the initials of investigating officers. Now the million dollar question is why did the UPSC ignore these facts.

According to the sources in FSL, Sunita Suman was in contact with Professor O. P. Ahuja of Punjabi University, Patiala, who was a member of the interview board. She apparently knew Ahuja from her student days in Punjabi University and was fully aware that he was in the interview panel. It is necessary to mention here that the names of members in the selection board is kept secret.

Similarly, in the chemistry division, there are applicants who provided wrong information and furnished fake certificates of experience. One Subodh Kumar Pol does not even posses a Masters degree in the relevant subject and neither has he any experience in forensic science. But he was selected as senior scientific officer in the chemistry division. Amit Rawat was also appointed as SSO in the chemistry division but his experience certificate says he was working as a scientific assistant in the biology division. Similarly, Bharti and Kanaklata were appointed as SSOs in the chemistry division even though both of them have no experience in forensic sciences. And they are not alone. There are several SSOs who have no prior experience in forensic sciences but are employed at FSL.

Hilariously, one applicant for the post of SSO in the lie detection division, Aruna Misra, showed experience of working at five separate places. But she attached merely three certificates one of which is from FSL, Rohini. According to the document, she worked at FSL from January 12, 2007 to February, 19, 2009. But according to RTI, the division was closed in that time period. Naturally, it appears that these applicants were appointed without doing any background check whatsoever and that their documents were never authenticated.

The document division is no exception. One Vijender Singh was appointed as SSO in the division whereas his experience certificate states that he previously worked at Rohini FSL as scientific assistant in the physics division.

In another revelation, it was found out that in 2009, Mukul Koranga, deputy secretary of the home department of Delhi government, sent a letter to the deputy secretary of UPSC, P. P. Haldar, stating that two SSOs in the physics division, Shanker Singh Badwal and V. Lakshmi had no experience in the concerned fields as they had previously worked in the ballistics division. However, even after such clear communiques, both these officers continue on their posts.

In a reply to an RTI application, the Delhi laboratory stood its ground and said that there has been no discrepancy in the selection process and that documents of all the candidates were thoroughly checked. However, this can not be true as withholding information or providing wrong information leads to automatic disqualification of a candidate. Such cases are referred to the Central Administrative Tribunal but nothing of that sort was ever done. Sham of a Lab Horses mouth

A K Gupta, former director, FSL Delhi

In any kind of investigation, what is the importance of a scientific experts findings in the court?
A court counts report of an expert as a very strong evidence.

You have worked as a document expert. Can an expert in physics work as a document expert?
No, how is it possible? Both departments are different and they have different functions.

Whose role is most important in appointment of an SSO?
The UPSCs role is most important because only the UPSC selects candidates and then the home department of Delhi government and FSL regularise them.

Who is responsible for checking the documents submitted by applicants before recruitment?
The UPSC and the home department are both responsible because the UPSC is responsible for selection of candidates and the documents are verified by the home department officials.

Does an FSL director know who all are working there, which posts they hold and which department they belong to?
It is obvious that the FSL director will know about the employees working in his facility.

Panjab University: Tracking down criminal students

Chandigarh: Hit by rising incidents of campus violence, Panjab University (PU), one of the oldest varsities in the country, has taken some bold steps, including opening a webpage on trouble makers and asking new students for affidavits on their past record.The varsity has opened a webpage on its website that will contain all past details about tainted students - the type of offence, punishment and all personal details.The heads of various departments will go through the webpage before offering admission to any among them. We have taken this step to curb violence inside the university campus. We have observed that there are certain students who indulge in violence and in incidents of road rage inside the campus very frequently. All details of such students will be uploaded on a separate page on the PU website, said Naval Kishore, PU s dean for students welfare (DSW).

Before offering admission, the head of the department will scan this webpage and, on his discretion, will decide whether to give admission to the student. Besides keeping a tab on criminal students from entering the campus, this initiative will also act as a deterrent for other students, stated Kishore.Over 11,000 students, about 70 percent of them girls, study in around 70 research and teaching departments of PU. It is spread over 550 acres covering Sectors 14 and 25.PU is the alma mater of many senior bureaucrats and senior politicians, including Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.The varsity authorities have also decided to take an affidavit from all new students about their past record.
Students will be required to submit an affidavit, within a month of admission, stating whether he has any criminal background or he has been convicted in any criminal offence. If a case has been registered against him, then the student has to furnish all details of the FIR, said a senior official of PU.

He added: If a student provides fake details or fails to provide this affidavit, then he will be rusticated from the department.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had done his graduation and post-graduation in Economics from here in the 1950s. Later, he joined the university as a lecturer and went on to become a professor at the young age of 32 years.The varsity s image has, however, been tarnished by frequent violent incidents that rocked the campus in the past few years.According to the records of Chandigarh Police, nearly 50 criminal cases, related to violence involving PU students, have been registered since 2005 and over 100 people arrested or detained for questioning.Besides Chandigarh Police officials, there are around 125 private security guards deployed in the PU campus to maintain law and order.
Students have expressed happiness over this initiative of PU.

We come to this university to study. But some students have made it a platform to display their muscle power.

We support this initiative of PU authorities and believe it will certainly control the increasing crime graph of the varsity, said Akanksha Moudgil, a PU engineering student.

Ashok Sahini, a parent, said: We welcome this step. Fear of being denied admission will work and now students will think many times before indulging in violence.

PU extends MSc Instrumentation deadline till July 4

Chandigarh: Now, students can apply till July 4 for admission to MSc in Instrumentation offered by Panjab University (PU).

The course is being conducted by University Centre for Instrumentation and Micro Electronics (UCIM) with an aim to fulfil the needs of the industrial sector. The eligibility for the course is B Sc with Physics-Electronics-Instrumentation Science-Computer Science-Vocational Physics-Electronics or BE (E and TC-Instrumentation) with minimum 50 per cent marks in aggregate.

For further details of the course, candidates may visit http:--pu.ac.in.

Punjab University tough on students involved in misconduct

Chandigarh: With admissions session round the corner, Punjab University (PU) has decided to create a separate website bearing the names of students involved in misconduct on campus.This will keep the head of different departments informed and help them deny admissions to the students who have been previously involved in any crime or sexual harassment on campus and against whom action has been taken by PU, a university spokesman said on Monday.It has been clarified by the university that once a student has indulged in misconduct on campus and action has been taken against him, he or she shall not be entitled to admission in any department.The website will come up by next month.

From rag pickers to fashion designers

Chandigarh: A group of rag pickers from the city has proved that where there is a will, there is a way. Some women from the sector 24 slum area have put up an exhibition of designer kurtas designed by them.

These women proved their mettle with the help of Chemical Engineering students from University Institute of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Chandigarh. Students in collaboration with NGO SIFE organised the exhibition at Mohayal Bhawan, Sector 24.

The team had also helped these slum dwellers in designing bands for the Kings XI team from plastic bottles during the IPL season. After receiving training, these slum dwellers even earned Rs 11,000 from sale of these bands.

The team has been providing free technical education to the poor in Sectors 38 and 25 under the Government of India s project Jan Shiksha Sansthan .

PU invites applications for self financing courses

Chandigarh: The Panjab University (PU) has invited applications for its self financing courses.

The university has invited applications for courses such as B.Sc (H), M.Sc, Physics and Electronics. The students would be given admissions on the basis of merit.

Those who wish to apply for B.Sc programme need to submit their detail marksheet at the Physics Department by July 11.Students who wish to study M.Sc (H) need to submit the application forms at the Physics Department till July 8.

The students can download the forms from the official website of Panjab University or get the forms from the university office.

The students will be informed about the interview date later.

PU admissions: Students run from pillar to post as chaos reigns

Chandigarh: The sale of admission forms for the next academic session of the Panjab University (PU) beginning in July has already started, but the students aspiring to take admission in the university are facing difficulties as no information regarding the admission process is available. No guidance bureau has been set up in the campus to provide admission related information to students.

The PU administration has set up an inquiry bureau but most of the students are unaware about it. This is particularly true of the out of station students who are the worst sufferers.

Student organisations are yet to receive permission to set up help-desks and guidance bureaus. As a result students can be seen aimlessly roaming around in the campus for lack of information.

Super response in online registration of PUs B.Com course

Ludhiana: The online registration for admission to Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) first year course in affiliated colleges of Panjab University (PU) began on Wednesday. On the first day itself, more than 3000 students applied for seats in the 26 colleges in Ludhiana, Chandigarh and Hoshiarpur.B.Com coordinator of the university Dr AK Vashisht said that around 300 students have also sent their bank drafts.

Several help desks have also been set up where students can fill the registration forms.PU has 188 affiliated colleges in Punjab and Chandigarh. Admissions to B.Com course in its colleges attracts students with high percentage of marks.In leading colleges, the admission cut-off for B.Com-I is nearly 90 percent marks in Class 12 exams.

Super response in online registration of PUs B.Com course

Panjab University CET 2011 results announced

Advertisement Chandigarh: The results of Panjab University Common Entrance Test (CET) 2011, the qualifying examination for entry to medical, engineering and dental colleges were declared on Thursday.Himanshu Gupta secured tenth rank in the entire country in Pre Medical Test (PMT).The CET is qualifying examination for entry to GMCH 32, dental college and MBBS courses in the state.Thousands of students had appeared for the Common Entrance test which was undertaken by the university last month.

Glitch on Panjab University website drives nervous students up the wall

Ludhiana: A technical fault on Panjab University’s website frustrated students to no end on Wednesday. The result of the B. Com final year disappeared from the website conspicuously.The result on the website vanished after morning. Students nervous and curious about their result could not find out how many marks they had scored.The colleges were also agitated with the glitch as they too wanted to know their toppers.

Students and teachers were seen sticking to their monitors, continuously checking the website but in vain. The link for the result on the Panjab University website led either to a blank page or would not open.
It was only late in the afternoon after 3 pm that the results were properly uploaded and could be seen, ending the misery of thousands of students and teachers alike.

Chandigarh students go to China with message of peace

Chandigarh: A 30-member Youth Peace Delegation comprising of students of Panjab University and Chandigarh school students left for China on Monday.

The delegates are being sent for a ten day visit to China under the Peace Delegation Program organised by NGO Yuvasatta.

The delegation comprises of Additional Advocate General Rita Kohli of Punjab and Haryana High Court, Panjab University teacher Dr Gurmeet Singh and research scholar Dipka Thakur.

Member of Yuvasatta Pramod Sharma said apart from visiting Peking University and schools the delegates are also going to visit Tianjin. Apart from this, the delegates will visit The Great Wall of China and other historical sites of the country.

Panjab University research scholar Dipika said the initiative would give exposure to the students and would help in improving the bilateral ties between the two countries.

The delegation comprises of students of Siphons School, St Anis, Government Model Senior Secondary School Sector 16 and Panjab University.

Need blood urgently? Send SMS to PU students

Chandigarh: Now, getting blood is just an SMS away for the people of tri-city. The students of University Institute of Engineering and Technology Kunal Kumar, Lokesh Arora and Moksh Goyal launched a service for arranging blood on Friday.

When the patients are in the need of blood they can send an SMS at 9779034758.

Apart from this, people of the city can also take doctors advice in case they are suffering from some major problem. The patients can also log on to www.blooddonation.org and seek doctor s advice.

The administrator of this service Vipin Goyal was also present during the occasion.

PU graduation results delayed for want of evaluators

Chandigarh: The undergraduate students of Panjab University (PU) need to wait for a longer time to get their results this year.

This year the undergraduates could witness delay in results due to lack of invigilators. Till date, examination papers of many subjects such as Punjabi, Hindi, Sanskrit and Sociology could not be checked.

Earlier, university teachers were allotted 250 examination papers for marking but the university teachers ignored the instructions. The carelessness on teachers part could delay the results of undergraduate students of Panjab University.

PU dispatches admit cards for CET

Chandigarh: Students appearing for the Common Entrance Test (CET) conducted by Punjab University (PU) are all geared up for their tests as the date for the test arrives nearer. PU is holding CET on May 22.

The roll numbers and admit-cards for the test have been dispatched to all the appearing candidates. PU Controller of Examination Professor AK Bhandari said in a statement that the admit cards have been dispatched.

He further said the students should contact CET Cell in Aruna Ranjit Chandra Hall, PU if they do not receive their admit cards by May 19.

The students can get duplicate admit cards on May 21 and May 22 from the CET Cell, he added.

Bhandari further said PU has postponed the last date for application of coaching for National Eligibility Test (NET) to May 14. The coaching for UGC Humanities will begin from May 16, he added.

PU students to receive examination enrollment numbers online

Chandigarh: The Punjab University students will no longer need to go to university or colleges to get their examination enrollment numbers. This year students will be able to receive their enrollment numbers at the click of a mouse. The scheme is being launched as a part of examination reform measures.Students will be able to download their enrollment numbers for annual as well as supplementary exams from the universitys official website. Thousands of students are expected to benefit from the new service.The plan is expected to be enforced from the new academic session. The university is preparing an integrated software module for implementing the new measure. The module will also seamlessly connect the university with colleges.

Al-Qaeda not a significant threat for India: Home Secretary

Chandigarh: Union Home Secretary GK Pillai on Saturday dismissed the possibility of an Al-Qaeda attack on India, saying the terror network was not a significant threat for the country.

Speaking at a seminar entitled, Strategies to Combat Internal Security Problems in India , at the Panjab University s Golden Jubilee Auditorium, Pillai said India had never been a prime target for Al-Qaeda s terror plots.

Pillai also expressed hope that the roots of terrorism would weaken across the world after Osama s death.

Addressing the issue of cross border terrorism at the seminar, Pillai said India had handed over to Pakistan a list of its most-wanted terror suspects.

He also said the country needed a modern police force to strengthen internal security, adding that nearly 18 lakh cops would be needed in India by 2016.

Soon, grading system to be introduced at PU

Chandigarh: The Panjab University has decided to evaluate its students on the basis of grades instead of following the old marking scheme.Now, the university is all set to start grading system like schools of the city.

As per the new education reforms set by the university and the affiliated colleges soon the system is going to be implemented at the campus.

From this academic session, choice based credit cum grading system would be started for all post graduate courses.

Also the university students are going to be shown their answer sheets from the coming academic session. The university has also decided to refund the money incase the answer sheets of the students have not been evaluated properly.

PU to have four govt constituent colleges in Punjab

Chandigarh In an initiative to start colleges in collaboration with the Punjab government, Panjab University (PU) will have four government constituent colleges in some of the most backward areas of the state. These colleges offering some of the popular courses, including graduate degree and post graduate diploma courses, will start functioning from July.

The four colleges would come up in Guru Har Sahai (Ferozepur), Nihalsinghwala (Moga), Balachaur (Nawanshahr) and Sikhwala (Muktsar). While the entire administrative and management would be controlled by Panjab University, funding including the salaries of the college staff and college infrastructure would be done by the Punjab government.

“As the appointments would be made by the University, the process has already been started for the appointment of four principals and 52 assistant professors for these four colleges. Students can take admissions for the coming academic session that would start from July this year,” said PU Vice-Chancellor Prof R C Sobti.

Of the 52 posts advertised last month for these colleges, when Prof Sobti was asked why no post for the subject ‘Hindi’ had been advertised, he replied that the point has been noted and it would be added in the appointments.

The constituent colleges plan is an initiative between the government and the university. While the affiliated colleges are entirely managed by the college management committees, administrative control of constituent colleges is done by the university and not given in any private hands.
Out of these four colleges, the two in Nihalsinghwala (Moga) and Balachaur (Nawanshahr) have already been inspected and recommended for approval by the university inspection committees in its report submitted to the University recently. The remaining two are expected to be inspected soon. The infrastructure of the first two colleges is complete while that of the remaining two is near completion.

The courses initially offered by these colleges will include BCom, BA, BCA and PGDCA. Though nothing was disclosed on the fee structure of these colleges, it is said that it would be kept at par with other colleges in the areas.

Free legal clinics to be setup soon

Chandigarh: Some good news for the city people. The State Legal Service Authority has decided to setup free legal clinics for the poor in six colonies of the city.

The clinics would be setup at Maloya, Palsora, Vikas Nagar, Molijagra, Colony No. 4 and UILS Department of the Punjab University.

The authority confirmed that around 61 legal volunteers would be helping so that the process goes on smoothly.

Earlier, Rs 50,000 was used to carry out the work smoothly but now the authority has decided to use Rs 1 lakh for this purpose.

Mind your language: Govt babus told to officiate in Punjabi

Chandigarh: In an initiative to promote the usage of Punjabi, the government babus will be put under the scanner. A tight check would be kept on the language that is being used in the government offices to conduct everyday operations. Action would be taken on the officers found guilty of not using Punjabi.

A three-level committee found for the promotion of Punjabi made the announcement on Tuesday after a meeting.

The District Language Officer was directed by the committee to guide all government officers and keeping a tab on them to ensure the state s language is used in official work.

The committee has big plans in the pipeline for the promotion of the language. A kavi darbar (poetry recitation function) will also be organised on a regular basis.

An electronic dictionary in Punjabi will also be maintained.

Panjab University has also been asked to join in and contribute in the initiative.

PU bans semester system for B.Com course

Ludhiana: The Panjab University has decided to ban semester system for B.Com course.Faculty of Commerce had already given its knod for semester system but a roll back was done after the protest of rural and aided colleges.The committee of Rules, Regulation and Guidelines for admission 2011-2012 has put a stamp on the decision that semester system wont be implemented for B.Com course. A meeting in this regard was held on Saturday which was attended by 20 members.University Grants Commission (UGC) had decided to implement semester system from this academic session.From a long time, principals, administration of aided schools was protesting against implementing semester system for B.Com.Till date, the colleges follow annual examination pattern.

The college administration is of the view that before implementing semester system a full fledged plan should be drafted so that the system is carried on smoothly.Committee Member Dr Mukesh Arora said, as per new rules and guidelines, annual examination system will be followed this year.

PU extends revaluation period of examination papers

Chandigarh: Panjab University (PU) has decided to extend the period during which the students can apply for revaluation. Unlike earlier when the time duration was 21 days, students can now apply for revaluation of their papers during a period of three months.

The students, however, will have to deposit a revaluation fee as decided by the university administration.

Also, as per a university decision, Ph D students who have not been able to complete their degree in due time can do so now till December this year. This also includes the students who were supposed to have submitted thesis years back.

The students, however, will have to deposit a revaluation fee as decided by the university administration.

Also, as per a university decision, Ph D students who have not been able to complete their degree in due time can do so now till December this year. This also includes the students who were supposed to have submitted thesis years back.

Cop critical after hit by drunk youth on bike

Ludhiana: Division 1 SHO Inspector Nirmal Singh was seriously injured after a motorcycle hit him on Monday.The three men on the motorcycle were drunk.

The police managed to catch them as they were trying to flee.The three have been identified as Upinder Singh, Manjot Singh and Gurlabh Singh. All three are final year students of MSc Agriculture in Panjab University.They have been charged with obstruction of duty and murder attempt.According to the police they went near the railway station to have parathas and liquor.The police said, the police tried to stop the three guilty at the check post. On seeing the police they tried to escape. When the SHO tried to stop their motorcycle they hit him with the bike and tried to flee.

Nirmal is suffering from a broken leg and serious injuries on his head.He has been admitted at the DMC hospital where the doctors had to operate him.Doctors said that his condition is still serious.

No cars in first year, PU tells students

Chandigarh: Some bad news for the students of Panjab University. From now on, the first year students won t be allowed to own a car.

The students have to file an affidavit that they will not buy a car while studying in first year.

The decision has been taken in a meeting held between Vice Chancellor Professor RC Sobti and university research scholars.

During the meeting, Prof Sobti said research scholars have to inform the department six months before the thesis is completed so that examiner could be selected.

Prof Sobti has decided to form research committee for each department by June.

She has asked the research scholars to give their bank account details so that fellowship amount can be transferred easily in their accounts.

Drunk PU students beat up cop

Chandigarh: Three Panjab University (PU) students, along with a friend, were arrested by police on for beating up a police constable after brawling with university guards on Saturday.

According to police, Nitin Negi, Uday Pal, Sanjay (all students of PU) and their friend Rohit Sharma were asked by university guards, posted at gate no 2, to show their Identity cards before entering the compound at around 1:30 on Saturday night as they were all heavily intoxicated. The students refused, and started abusing the guards.

The guards, as a result, called PCR; but when PCR constables showed up, the students hurled abuses at them as well. They even entered into a fight with them. PCR called up the sector 11 police station for help after which the students were arrested.

Gurmukh Singh, TI of sector 11 police station, said that the students were presented before court on Sunday and were granted bail.

Teacher sends legal notice to students over complaint

Chandigarh: A Panjab University (PU) history teacher has issued a legal notice to 17 students of his department asking them to take back their complaint filed against him of deliberately failing them.

A few days back, 17 students of the history department had given a written complaint to the dean for university instructions (DUI) against Surinder Singh, in which they charged that he had deliberately failed them for the second time in the same exam.

Following this Surinder Singh sent a legal notice to the students, urging them to take back their complaint within 15 days.

Singh said, I had checked over 120 answer books and I do not even know the names of these 17 students. I had given marks on the basis of what was written in the answer books. I am ready to give a thorough explanation about the marks given to each question. They are just trying to create pressure and bully us.

Therefore, I have sent them legal notice through my lawyer to withdraw the complaint within 15 days otherwise I will file a defamation case and claim damages of Rs.10 lakh from each student for maligning my image. They have attempted to tamper my image as a teacher and it would put a very bad example before my colleagues and other students, he further said.

The Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC) leaders have come forward in support of the students. Singh said that the students have been misguided by the political leaders of the university campus who are trying to take mileage out of this issue.

Rajiv Lochan, chairperson of history department, said: I cannot comment on this issue at the moment. We have called an emergency meeting with the faculty members and students to discuss this issue on tomorrow (Monday).

A student said, Our teacher has deliberately failed us as he does not like us. He is trying to settle his personal scores.

History teacher Surinder Singh sends legal notice to students

Panjab University (PU) history teacher has issued a legal notice to 17 students of his department asking them to take back their complaint filed against him of deliberately failing them. A Few days back, 17 students of the history department had given a written complaint to the dean for university instructions (DUI) against Surinder Singh, in which they charged that he had deliberately failed them for the second time in the same exam. Last week, these students had submitted a memorandum to the PU authorities, claiming that their teacher, Surinder Singh, had 'deliberately' failed them in the mediaeval India-political process examination.

Following this Surinder Singh sent a legal notice to the students, urging them to take back their complaint within 15 days. "I had checked over 120 answer books and I do not even know the names of these 17 students. I had given marks on the basis of what was written in the answer books. I am ready to give a thorough explanation about the marks given to each question. They are just trying to create pressure and bully us," Singh said on Sunday.

He added: "Therefore, I have sent them legal notice through my lawyer to withdraw the complaint within 15 days otherwise I will file a defamation case and claim damages of Rs.10 lakh from each student for maligning my image. They have attempted to tamper my image as a teacher and it would put a very bad example before my colleagues and other students." ''How would I know the answersheets of those students. There were over 120 answersheets, without any names or identification marks,'' he added.

The Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC) leaders have come forward in support of the students. Singh said that the students have been misguided by the political leaders of the university campus who are trying to take mileage out of this issue. Rajiv Lochan, chairperson of history department, said: "I cannot comment on this issue at the moment. We have called an emergency meeting with the faculty members and students to discuss this issue on tomorrow (Monday)."
"Our teacher has deliberately failed us as he does not like us. He is trying to settle his personal scores," a student told not wanting his identity to be revealed.

He has submitted a seven-page reply to the university against the complaint and said that all the students should be called at the vice-chancellor office and the answersheets should be shown to them. He would then explain them why they were given less marks during evaluation. He has also urged the university to check the academic status of these students in the last three semesters to know how serious they were towards studies. Officials said the head of department of history has called a meeting of students and faculty on Monday to discuss the issue.

PU colleges to have semester system from this session

Ludhiana: The Panjab University (PU) is planning to implement semester system in post-graduate courses in all colleges from this academic session. However, no preparation has yet been done for the changeover and the colleges are said to be ill prepared for the new system.The semester system is already in force at the university level, but there are 188 colleges affiliated to PU which are not prepared for the new system and are being forced to implement it by the University Grant Commission (UGC). The colleges will not receive their grants unless they change to the semester system.

Colleges are facing various problems in implementing the new system. The academic calendar has been planned according to annual examinations and the colleges are under staffed to enforce the semester system from next academic session which commences from July 15.

Soon, Panjab University to unveil 24X7 helpline to answer all your queries

Chandigarh: Here s a welcome piece of news for Panjab University (PU) students. If you are studying in any of the 188 colleges affiliated to PU and you have queries regarding examinations, forms, timetables, syllabi etc., the answerers will soon be just a phone call away. The PU administration is set to unveil a new 24X7 tele-calling facility to help its students.

Of the 118 colleges affiliated to PU, only 8 are located in Chandigarh while the rest 180, comprising some 2.5 lakh students, are scattered across parts of Punjab.

Students, who are currently forced to come to PU campus whenever they need any information, will soon be able to get solutions to their problems sitting anywhere in the world.

The helpline will also come in handy for student s enrolled in private and correspondence courses.

PU students remembers Shaheed Bhagat Singh

Chandigarh: The Panjab University students celebrated the anniversary of Bhagat Singh on Wednesday.

The students took part in marathon and pledged to follow Bhagat Singh s path. In the evening, the students took out a candle march in the campus and remembered Raj Guru, Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev. The candle march started from student s centre and culminated at PU market.

ABVP workers lit up candles at Panjab University s students centre and paid tribute to the martyrs.

PU law students protest over examination schedule

Chandigarh: The students of law department of Punjab University protested outside the department on Tuesday.

The law students protested against the clash of examination dates of re-appear and annual exams.

According to university students, they had already informed the PU Administration regarding this.

Dean Student Welfare Prof Naval Kishore visited the students and tried to find out solution for their problems. He said that soon steps will be taken in this regard.

The students have submitted a memorandum to the administration.

President Patil in Punjab University today

Chandigarh: Punjab University is set to receive a special guest on Thursday for the Dr VN Tiwari Memorial lecture at Law Faculty in the varsity.

President Pratibha Singh Patil will visit the varsity on Thursday.

Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will be the chief guest for the function. Science and Technology and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal and MP Manish Tiwari will also be present at the function.

Delhi-based bogus company visits Panjab University

Panjab University officials here were left red-faced after they discovered that a Delhi-based company, which conducted campus interviews at its School of Communication Studies (SCS) department for public relations jobs, was bogus.

Panjab University officials Thursday said the managing director of New Delhi-based Laj Group of Companies had visited the department Tuesday and conducted a written test and one-on-one interviews.

He had also shortlisted 10 students of the final semester and offered them a package of Rs.12,000 per month for first three to six months training period.

To ascertain the credentials of the company, some students doing their internship in New Delhi went to its Connaught Place address only to find that no such company existed.

SCS chairperson on Wednesday night circulated an e-mail among all students cautioning them about the fake company.

Please do not join this company as we have found that the WTC (world trade centre) address at Connaught Place does not exist, the e-mail said.

Archana R. Singh, chairperson of SCS department, said: We had some suspicion over the behaviour of the companys representative so we verified its credentials.

It was a bogus company. We have directed our students to immediately stop communication with the company officials, she added.

Sources in the varsity said the same company had also visited two other departments of Panjab University for placements during the last few days.

The varsitys authorities are now contemplating lodging a police complaint and taking legal action against the bogus company.

President to visit PU on Thursday

Chandigarh: President Pratibha Patil will visit Punjab University (PU) on Thursday to participate in the VN Memorial Lecture. Chandigarh Administrator and Punjab Governor Shivraj Patil , and Haryana Governor Jagannath Paharia will also be present in the function.

Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda will be the Chief Guest of the event.

The function, which will start at the university auditorium at 11:00 am, will also be attended by the Central Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal and Member of Parliament Manish Tewari.

MANTRINI PRASAD Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND OTHERS Civil Writ Petition 11160 of 1989

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

(O and M)

Date of decision: 14.03.2011

Dr. Mantrini Prasad ....Petitioner
versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others ....Respondents

CORAM:
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE K. KANNAN

Present:
None for the petitioner.
Mr. Atul Kaushik, Advocate, for respondents 1 and 2.
None for respondent No.3.

K.Kannan, J. (Oral)
There is no representation for the petitioner. The matter relates to a challenge of termination order of a person, who was a probationer. The contention of the petitioner was that he had been dismissed for flimsy reason. A person, who is a probationer, is liable for termination without any reason and it cannot be avail to a petitioner to contend that a termination has been effected without assigning any
appropriate reason, unless the issue of mala fide is taken, which however, does not exist in the petition. A challenge to termination simpliciter for a person, who is in probation, cannot arise. The petition is dismissed.

(K.KANNAN)
JUDGE

SARTAJ MEHTA Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANOTHER CWP 4362 of 2011

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of decision : 10.3.2011

Sartaj Mehta ....Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and another ...Respondents

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE MAHESH GROVER

Present :
Mr.Karminder Singh, Advocate for the petitioner.

MAHESH GROVER, J.
Concededly the petitioner has not cleared the compartment examination and is not entitled to take examination of the next class unless he does so. There is, thus, no reason to interfere and grant the prayer which has been made in the petition.

Dismissed.

(MAHESH GROVER)
JUDGE

PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH Vs PAL SINGH AND OTHERS LPA 860 of 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

(O and M) and connected appeals

Date of Decision: March 9, 2011

Panjab University, Chandigarh ...Appellant
Versus
Pal Singh and others …Respondents

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE M.M. KUMAR
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE T.P.S. MANN

Present:
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for the appellant.
Mr. R.D. Bawa, Advocate, for the respondent Nos. 1 and 3 to 6 in LPA No. 860 of 2010;
for respondent Nos. 4 to 7, 9 to 11 and 13 to 15 in LPA No. 862 of 2010; and
for respondent Nos. 1, 3 and 4 in LPA No. 863 of 2010. Mr. Raman Sharma, Advocate, for respondent No. 1 in LPA No. 861 of 2010 and

1. To be referred to the Reporters or not?

2. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

M.M. KUMAR, J.
1. This order shall dispose of a bunch of 4 appeals* filed under Clause X of the Letters Patent against the order dated 9.12.2008 passed by the learned Single Judge disposing of the writ petitions in terms of judgment of even date rendered in CWP No. 14650 of 2004 (Rajman Yadav and others v. Panjab University, Chandigarh).

2. It is conceded position that against the judgment dated 9.12.2008 rendered by the learned Single Judge in Rajman Yadav's LPA No. 860 of 2010 (O and M) and connected appeals case (supra), the appellant-Panjab University has preferred LPA No. 295 of 2009 and the Letters Patent Bench while setting aside the said judgment of learned Single Judge remanded the matter back for fresh decision, vide order dated 5.11.2009, by observing as under:

1. This appeal has been preferred against judgment of learned Single Judge, directing framing of policy for regularization in the light of judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme
Court in U.P. State Electricity Board v. Pooran Chandra Pandey (SC) 2007 (4) SCC 179.

2. We have perused the impugned judgment and heard learned counsel for the parties.

3. Learned counsel for the appellant points out that learned Single Judge has gone solely by judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in Pooran Chandra Pandey (supra), which has been overruled in Official Liquidator v. Daya Nand and others (2008) 10 SCC 1. We find it to be so. Accordingly, without going into any further question, the impugned order is set aside and the matter is remitted back to learned Single Judge for fresh decision, in accordance with law.

3. In view of above, these appeals are also disposed of in terms of order dated 5.11.2009 passed by the Letters Patent Bench in Rajman Yadav's case (supra).

4. A photocopy of this order be placed on the files of connected appeals.

(M.M. KUMAR)
JUDGE

(T.P.S. MANN)
JUDGE

LPA No. 860 of 2010 (O and M) and connected appeals

1. LPA No. 860 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh v. Pal Singh and others

2. LPA No. 861 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh and another v. Surjit Kumari and others

3. LPA No. 862 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh v. Gurjit Singh and others

4. LPA No. 863 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh v. Surinder Singh and others

(M.M. KUMAR)
JUDGE

(T.P.S. MANN)
JUDGE

PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH Vs GURJIT SINGH AND OTHERS LPA 860 of 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

(O and M) and connected appeals

Date of Decision: March 9, 2011

Panjab University, Chandigarh ...Appellant
Versus
Pal Singh and others …Respondents

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE M.M. KUMAR
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE T.P.S. MANN

Present:
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for the appellant.
Mr. R.D. Bawa, Advocate, for the respondent Nos. 1 and 3 to 6 in LPA No. 860 of 2010;
for respondent Nos. 4 to 7, 9 to 11 and 13 to 15 in LPA No. 862 of 2010; and
for respondent Nos. 1, 3 and 4 in LPA No. 863 of 2010.
Mr. Raman Sharma, Advocate, for respondent No. 1 in LPA No. 861 of 2010 and

1. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
2. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

M.M. KUMAR, J.
1. This order shall dispose of a bunch of 4 appeals* filed under Clause X of the Letters Patent against the order dated 9.12.2008 passed by the learned Single Judge disposing of the writ petitions in terms of judgment of even date rendered in CWP No. 14650 of 2004 (Rajman Yadav and others v. Panjab University, Chandigarh).

2. It is conceded position that against the judgment dated 9.12.2008 rendered by the learned Single Judge in Rajman Yadav's LPA No. 860 of 2010 (O and M) and connected appeals case (supra), the appellant-Panjab University has preferred LPA No. 295 of 2009 and the Letters Patent Bench while setting aside the said judgment of learned Single Judge remanded the matter back for fresh decision, vide order dated 5.11.2009, by observing as under:

1. This appeal has been preferred against judgment of learned Single Judge, directing framing of policy for regularization in the light of judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in U.P. State Electricity Board v. Pooran Chandra Pandey (SC) 2007 (4) SCC 179.

2. We have perused the impugned judgment and heard learned counsel for the parties.
3. Learned counsel for the appellant points out that learned Single Judge has gone solely by judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in Pooran Chandra Pandey (supra), which has been overruled in Official Liquidator v. Daya Nand and others (2008) 10 SCC 1. We find it to be so. Accordingly, without going into any further question, the impugned order is set aside and the matter is remitted back to learned Single Judge for fresh decision, in accordance with law.

3. In view of above, these appeals are also disposed of in terms of order dated 5.11.2009 passed by the Letters Patent Bench in Rajman Yadav's case (supra).

4. A photocopy of this order be placed on the files of connected appeals.

(M.M. KUMAR)
JUDGE

(T.P.S. MANN)
JUDGE

1. LPA No. 860 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh v. Pal Singh and others

2. LPA No. 861 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh and another v. Surjit Kumari and others

3. LPA No. 862 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh v. Gurjit Singh and others

4. LPA No. 863 of 2010 (O and M)
Panjab University, Chandigarh v. Surinder Singh and others

(M.M. KUMAR)
JUDGE

(T.P.S. MANN)
JUDGE

PU to give stipend to all research scholars soon

Chandigarh: The proposed increase in central funding of Panjab University is likely to bring cheers for number of those research scholars who are currently perusing their academic activities without any financial assistance.

The university authorities are learnt be looking into a proposal in this regard in which all the non-JRF scholars will get stipend, a system which already exists in most of the central universities in the country.

According to the proposal discussed in the syndicate meeting on Sunday, the university is planning to give a UGC-assigned stipend of Rs 3000 and Rs 5000 per month to the M.Phil and Ph.D scholars respectively.

V-C Prof. RC Sobti too is learnt to have given a primary approval in this regard and the proposal is soon likely to be sent to the Union government for approval.

PU signs MoU with ICA

Chandigarh: Panjab University (PU) and Institute of Correctional Administration (ICA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday.

The MoU will allow the students and faculty of PU to use th the library and other facilities of ICA.

Home Secretary of Chandigarh Ram Niwas and PU Registrar Professor AK Bhandari Professor Nishtha Jaiswal signed the MoU. The two organisations will now research on police, jails and correctional administration collaboration with each other.

NAGINDER SINGH Versus PRESIDING OFFICER LABOUR COURT AND ANOTHER Date of Decision: 25.02.2011

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB & HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

LPA No. 1790 of 2010

Date of Decision: 25.02.2011

Naginder Singh ...Appellant
Versus
Presiding Officer Labour Court and another ..Respondents.

CORAM:
HON BLE MR. JUSTICE RANJAN GOGOI CHIEF JUSTICE
HON BLE MR. JUSTICE JASWANT SINGH

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment ?
2. Whether to be referred to the Reporters or not ?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

Present : None for the appellant.

RANJAN GOGOI C.J.(Oral)
This appeal has been filed against the order dated 6.8.2009 passed in Civil Writ Petition No. 11734 of 1999 by which the learned Single Judge has upheld the award of the Industrial Adjudicator so far as wrongful termination of the appellant-workman is concerned. However the learned Single Judge has interfered with the part of the award directing re-instatement of the appellant and has instead ordered for payment of compensation of Rs. 35 000-- in lieu of reinstatement.

The part of the order holding termination of the appellant to be unjustified is not assailed before us by the Management.

The only question that would require consideration of the Court therefore is whether the learned Single Judge was justified in granting compensation in lieu of the reinstatement of the workman. The incidental question that would arise is the adequacy of the quantum of compensation determined by the learned Single Judge.

A reading of the order of learned Single Judge dated 6.8.2009 would go to show that the appellant had been working in the Panjab University as a Junior Engineer (Civil) w.e.f. 1.8.2006.

If that be so no fault can be found with the order of the learned Single Judge in interfering with the reinstatement ordered by the learned Labour Court. So far as the quantum of compensation is concerned the same lies within the discretion of the learned Court. Nothing has been pointed out to show that the discretion has been exercised in a manner that will call for any interference.

For the aforesaid reasons we do not consider the present appeal to be fit for admission and for any further hearing.

Consequently we dismiss the same and affirm the order passed by the learned Single Judge.

(RANJAN GOGOI)
CHIEF JUSTICE

(JASWANT SINGH)
JUDGE

DR YADVINDER SINGH Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY and ANR CWP No5143 of 2009

HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH

CWP No5143 of 2009 (O&M)

Date of Decision: 25022011

Dr Yadvinder Singh Petitioner
VS
Punjab University & Anr Respondents

CORAM : HON BLE MRJUSTICE SURYA KANT

1 Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?
2 To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3 Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

Present: Mr GS Bal Advocate for the petitioner
Mr Kanwaljit Singh Senior Advocate with
Ms Sukhwinder Kaur Advocate for the respondents

SURYA KANT J (ORAL)
(1) The petitioner seeks reguarlisation of the period from
25042008 to 04112008 during which he was on medical leave He also seeks pay and other consequential monetary benefits for the said period

(2) Learned senior counsel representing the respondents states and is not disputed on behalf of the petitioner also that the salary for the afore-stated period has already been paid to the petitioner As regards regularization of the said period and other consequential monetary benefits including the correct fixation of the date of annual increment due to him let the petitioner make a representation to the Vice
Chancellor as early as possible which it is directed shall be considered sympathetically with an endeavour to release the due benefits to the petitioner in accordance with law-Rules

The appropriate orders shall be passed within a period of three months from the date of receipt of a certified copy of this order

(3) Ordered accordingly Dasti

(S u r y a K a n t)
Judge

MRS PARVEEN SHARDA AND OTHERS Versus STATE OF PUNJAB AND OTHERS FAO 2806 of 1999

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

FAO 2806 of 1999

DATE OF DECISION: February 22, 2011

MRS.PARVEEN SHARDA AND OTHERS ...APPELLANTS
VERSUS
STATE OF PUNJAB AND OTHERS ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE K.KANNAN.

1. Whether reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgement? Yes-No
2. To be referred to the reporters or not? Yes-No
3. Whether the judgement should be reported in the digest? Yes-No

PRESENT:
MR. V.RAMSWAROOP, ADVOCATE FOR THE APPELLANTS.
NONE FOR THE RESPONDENTS.

K.KANNAN, J.(ORAL)
1. The appeal is for enhancement of claim for compensation for death of a Sr.Lecturer in Botany Department in Panjab University. He was drawing `12000--. Learned counsel seeks for reappraisal of compensation in the manner laid down by the Hon'ble Supreme Court in Sarla Verma versus DTC, reported as 2009 6 SCC 121. I will make a modification with reference to the income by factoring a prospect of increase in salary and also make a modification with reference to the deduction for personal expenses, having regard to the size of the family.

2. The Tribunal has taken a multiplier of 15 which I will reduce to 14, consistent with the abovesaid decision.

Learned counsel seeks for admission into evidence of a documentary proof of the fact that Panjab University provides for 15% of the basic salary as House Rent Allowance.

This is a subsequent development taken place, after the filing of the petition and during the pendency of the appeal. I see no reason to accommodate any additional provision for House Rent, having regard to the fact that I have provided for 30% increase as an average increase in the salary. The over-all compensation as determined is tabulated below:-

Fatal Accidents
Age: 42
Occupation Sr.Lecturer Claimants Widow, 2 minor children
Heads of Claim Tribunal High Court Sr.No. Amount ` Amount `
1. Annual Income 12000 12000
2. Add % of increase 30% - 10%Tax 15,600 - 1560
3. Deduction (1-2,1-3, 1-4, 1-5) 1-4
4. Multiplicand 10530 x 12
5. Multiplier 14
6. Loss of Dependence 14,40,000 17,69,040
7. Medical Expenses 5000 5000
8. Loss of Consortium + loss of love and affection 5000 10,000
9. Loss to Estate 2500 5000
10. Funeral Expenses 2000 2000
11. Damage to Scooter 5400 5400
Total 14,59,900-- 17,91,040--

3. The amount in excess over what has been determined by the Tribunal shall attract interest @ 6% from the date of petition till the date of payment. The additional amount of compensation shall be distributed equally to the widow and the children only.

4. The liability shall be in the same manner as determined by the Tribunal.

5. The appeal is allowed to the above extent.

(K.KANNAN)
JUDGE

IQBAL SINGH AND ANOTHER Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND OTHERS Civil Writ Petition 7915 of 1991 (O AND M)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision 15.02.2011

Iqbal Singh and another ...... Petitioners
VERSUS
Panjab University and others ...... Respondents

CORAM:-
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE A.N.JINDAL

Present:
None.

A.N.JINDAL, J:
Despite several calls, none has put in appearance on behalf of the petitioners. It appears that they are no more interested in pursuing the present petition.

Dismissed for non-prosecution.

(A.N.Jindal)
Judge

Girls outshine boys at Panjab University convocation

Chandigarh: Girls clearly outnumbered boys at the 60th annual convocation function at Panjab University (PU) on Monday. Out of the 479 students who were awarded degrees, 351 were girls.

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni was the chief guest at the convocation, while Punjab Governor and Chandigarh administrator Shivraj Patil presided over the function.

It is a big occasion and I congratulate all the students. We are demanding 33 per cent reservation for women in parliament and in Vidhan Sabha, but seeing the good number of girls outshining boys here, I think that we should demand 50 per cent reservation, Soni said while addressing the gathering.

Over 11,000 students, 70 per cent of them girls, study in around 70 research and teaching departments of PU. Its campus is spread over 553 acres in Sectors 14 and 25.

I am very happy to see large number of female students getting degrees during this convocation. I have also seen the same trend in other universities where maximum number of gold medallists is always girls, Patil said in his convocation address.

This is a big challenge for boys and they should take this in a sporting feeling and make up their minds to do well in the next exams, he added.

PU is also the alma mater and former workplace of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The university authorities had also planned to confer an honorary doctorate of law degree on former Lok Sabha speaker Somnath Chatterjee, and award a doctorate of literature degree to noted author-journalist Khushwant Singh. But they could not make it to the convocation ceremony.

We would honour them later at a special convocation function to be held at the residence of Khushwant Singh in New Delhi, PU Vice-Chancellor RC Sobti said.

Cops ensure peaceful Valentines Day for Chandigarh couples

Chandigarh: Elaborate security arrangements were made all across the city, especially at hotels, restaurants and discotheques, to ensure a smooth Valentine s Day on Monday.

A large number of police personnel were deployed at the famous Geri Route, a street frequented by young couples, where cops clearly outnumbered the youngsters.

Heavy presence of policemen, barricades and check posts on the three-kilometre stretch covering the upscale Sectors 9, 10 and 11, however, left many youths dejected. They complained of unnecessary frisking of their vehicles and questioning by the police.

This is just like any other day and what is the need of deploying so many cops here? It is really frightening to see so many men in khaki roaming around you, said Sonika Jindal, a student whose college is located on the Geri Route.

Nearly a dozen educational institutions are located on this road. Panjab University campus is also at a distance of 500 metres from Chandigarh. The street was christened Geri (joyride) Route many years back with youngsters zipping around on motorbikes and swanky cars.

Entry to Panjab University campus in Sector 14 was also restricted to avoid any untoward incident. Every year, there is unprecedented police cover on Geri Route on Valentine s Day. Therefore, I have decided to go uphill with my girl-friend to avoid police harassment, college-goer Sidharatha Sharma said.

Many youngsters and couples had planned trips to Kasauli, Dharampur and Timber Trail, located on the periphery of this union territory. This security cover is necessary to avoid incidents of teasing and to keep a tab on unruly youths. But we are making sure that nobody is being harassed by the police, a police officer said.

Panjab University goes on air, gets community radio

Chandigarh: In a bid to highlight developmental issues and the problems of the people, the Panjab University (PU) here on Sunday got its own Jyotirgamaya community radio.

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni inaugurated the radio station at the School of Communication Studies building on the university campus.

Considering the reach of radio and its affordability, this medium of mass communication holds great potential. I would see (to it) that the existing coverage range of PU radio (which is six km) is allowed to be extended as soon as possible, Soni told reporters.

It is the endeavour of my ministry to promote community radio stations as these are the best bonding agents and they involve the local population, she added.

The community radio would impart information related to education, health, environment, society, cultural and would also be used for making announcements specific to the university.

This is the second community radio in Chandigarh. The first is being run by a leading private school.

Soni also said that there was need for self-regulation on general entertainment channels and the government was close to formulating a framework under which this could be made possible.

SANDEEP KUMAR Versus PUNJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND OTHERS C W P 13666 of 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH

Date of decision : 10.2.2011

Sandeep Kumar ....Petitioner
Versus
Punjab University, Chandigarh and others ...Respondents

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE MAHESH GROVER

Present : Mr. Rajkapoor Malik, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr.Deepak Sibal, Advocate for the respondents.

MAHESH GROVER, J.
The instant writ petition has been filed by the petitioner seeking admission to the LL.B.Ist Semester Evening Course for the session 2010-2011.

The petitioner made a grievance that he had applied against the backward caste candidate and had not been considered.

He further contended that the BC Category was included in the current session even though in the initial schedule there was no BC category. The petitioner appeared in the test and was placed at Sr.No.565. Since the BC category was introduced, the petitioner prayed himself to be considered in the same category for which counselling was scheduled on 13.7.2010.

The petitioner did not appear for the counselling and in this writ petition while making the grievance of non-consideration has referred to a medical certificate (Annexure P-6) showing that he was unwell from 13.7.2010 to 20.7.2010. In the petition he has prayed that the respondents be also directed to consider his case.

The respondents have filed reply and have drawn the attention of this court to the certificate to say that it is palpably false , as in the averments made in the petition the petitioner has pleaded that he was unwell from 13.7.2010 to 20.7.2010 but if the averments made in paras 6 and 8 of the petition are to be seen, then according to him, he had made inquiries on 15.7.2010 by visiting the University. If he was unwell and incapacitated from 13.7.2010 to 20.7.2010, it is not conceivable how he made inquiries by personally visiting the respondents on 15.7.2010. Apparently, this story has been concocted by the petitioner. The certificate attached also does not show as to what ailment the petitioner was suffering from.

That apart, there is no seat available under the category and the petitioner who himself missed the counselling cannot be granted any benefit at this stage especially when the entire semester is almost over.

No ground to interfere.

Dismissed.

(MAHESH GROVER)
JUDGE

Panjab University MBA entrance test on Mar 27

Chandigarh: The University Institute of Applied Management Studies (UIAMS), Panjab University is going to conduct entrance test for its MBA programme on Mar 27.

The entrance test is going to be conducted at various centres in New Delhi, Chandigarh and Ludhiana.

The aspirants can collect the application forms and prospectus from Panjab University post office or from any post office in New Delhi and Ludhiana.

The cost of form for General category students is Rs 1750 and Rs 875 for scheduled caste and scheduled tribe students.

The students can easily get the prospectus and demands draft by post. They just need to send a bank draft on the name of Registrar, Panjab University.

They can even download the form from university s website. The students can send the duly filled admission form by Mar 4. A late fee of Rs 1000 will be charged after this date.

Amarinder meets protesting PU students, extends support

Ludhiana: State Congress chief and former CM Amarinder Singh on Saturday visited the Panjab University campus to meet the agitating medical students.Accompanied by his son Ranindra, Singh extended his support to the cause of the students and said that their demand for recruitment in government jobs would be taken up when the Congress comes back to power.Slamming the Badal government for allegedly ignoring the farm sector of the state, Singh said that both students and farmers were bearing the burnt of apathy of the government in recruitment in Agriculture Department.Meanwhile, the ongoing protest of the students entered the 10th day today with no headway till date as both the government and students stand firm on their stand.Students held a protest rally on the 10th day outside Thapar Hall, universitys administrative building.Addressing the gathering, Rupesh Moga, head of the PU Students Association (PUSA), criticised the university administration for not taking their cause up to the government and blamed it behind the deadlock between students and the government.

Minister cancels trip as PU students continue protest

Ludhiana: The agitating Panjab University (PU) students continued their protest on Thursday, forcing state Agriculture minister Suchha Singh Lungah cancel his proposed trip to the university.Five B.Sc. students sat on fast as part of their serial hunger strike after which the ministers trip of PU Kisan Club was cancelled. It was later inaugurated by former MP.
The students, who are demanding absorption of agriculture students in state government jobs, have already rejected the talks offer by the minister saying that they wont accept anything less than a meet with CM Prakash Singh Badal.The students have also received support from the Bharatiya Kisan Union which has assured them of raising their cause at the proposed Lok Sansad on 5th and 6th of this month.

Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in and around the campus to avert any possible law and order problem in wake of the agitation. An exclusive cell of women police has also been deployed to maintain order.

Tea house, pagoda huts et al - a Japanese Garden in Chandigarh!

Chandigarh: Already famous for its gardens and dense green cover, this joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, visited by nearly one million tourists each year, is all set to get a theme-based Japanese Garden with a Japanese-styled tower, lanterns, tea house and pagoda huts.

The union tourism ministry has sanctioned a grant of over Rs 4.26 crore for the setting up of this garden in Sector 31, officials said. The garden will be completed in the next few months and it will be an added attraction for tourists.

The ministry has been supporting our initiatives to broadbase the tourism infrastructure in the city, Chandigarh home-cum-tourism secretary Ram Niwas said.

Development of new gardens in the city will help us to maintain the epithet of Chandigarh as a city of gardens and greens, he added. We have got central financial assistance of over Rs 4.26 crore for the development of the Japanese Garden. The garden will have unique Japanese-styled tourist reception centre, tea house and pagoda huts, Niwas said.

The garden will have unique tunnels that connect different sections of green belts with one another. There will be Japanese-style meandering walkways for the visitors and special illumination to facilitate the tourists during late hours.
There would be Japanese tower, Japanese lanterns and Japanese-styled river concepts. There will be miniature hills, small islands, water features, streams and artistic bridges, Niwas stated.
Evergreen plants shall be planted in the Japanese Garden along with a few deciduous trees like weeping willow and mulberry, he said. Besides, there will be flowering and fruit trees like peach, plum and all kinds of bamboos, he added. Chandigarh can boast of a sprawling garden at a distance of around every one kilometre. Besides, there is a Rose Garden, spread over an area of 46 acres which has 17,000 plants showcasing nearly 800 varieties of roses and an assortment of medicinal plants.

These gardens are a major attraction for tourists. Many new theme-based gardens like Garden of Palms, Garden of Conifers, Valley of Animals and Cactus Garden are also coming up.
Environmentalists and other experts are very enthusiastic about the setting up of various theme-based gardens in the union territory.

Chandigarh is already famous for its extensive green cover. The climatic conditions are very supportive for the healthy growth of all species of plants and trees, said RK Kohli, Chairperson of the botany department of Punjab University.

These gardens will add to the unique character of Chandigarh. There are over 300 species of trees in Chandigarh and many of the trees are even older than the city, stated Kohli, who has done extensive research on the trees of Chandigarh and written books on them.

Chandigarh is the only planned city in independent India. It was designed by legendary French architect Le Corbusier for a population of 500,000, but now the city accommodates over 1.1 million people and a floating population of over 100,000 a day.

Its green cover is 38.8 percent of its geographical area -- the maximum in the country. Chandigarh is followed by Delhi, which has nearly 20 percent tree cover.

Congestion, chaos, accidents are order of the day

Chandigarh: When French architect Le Corbusier designed the modern city of Chandigarh in the 1950s, it was supposed to cater to a maximum population of 500,000 residents. Six decades on, this twin capital is still the City Beautiful , but houses almost 1.2 million people with 800,000 registered vehicles and an estimated 100,000 driving through every day.

In the 2001 Census, the population stood at 900,914.

With urban planning for Chandigarh not keeping pace with the growth of vehicles in the 114 square km city, a union territory which is also the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana states, congestion, chaos and accidents have become the order of the day.

Officials at the Registering and Licensing Authority (RLA) say that over 125 vehicles are added to the city s roads every day. And up to 40 percent of them are cars and other four-wheelers.

Our workload has increased many times in recent years. Despite more windows for registration of vehicles, the rush is never-ending, an RLA official said.

In 2010, 45,481 vehicles were registered in the city, the highest number registered in a single year. The figure was much less in previous years, 37,967 (2009), 33,577 (2008), 33,256 (2007), 33,777 (2006) and 29,697 (2005).

Normally one registration series (9,999 numbers) gets over in three-four months. However, the CH-01-AE series got over in just one month in December, the RLA official said.

Besides the over 786,000 vehicles registered in Chandigarh so far, traffic officials of the Chandigarh police say that the city gets a floating population of nearly 100,000 vehicles from adjoining suburbs of Panchkula (Haryana) and Mohali (Punjab). In addition, scores of vehicles come from adjoining states of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.

The ever-increasing number of cars and other vehicles is leading to a lot of chaos on the roads, parking lots and even in residential areas. It seems that the city s planners are just sleeping. No one is bothered about managing things now. Everything will just explode one day, Sanjiv Tewari, a retired senior officer of Panjab University said.

In a majority of the city s parking lots, including the paid parking zones, finding space to park a car leaves one harassed. Getting in and out of parking areas is an obstacle too with haphazardly parked vehicles.

People many times park their vehicles wrongly. This leads to chaos and even fights. If we tell them to park properly, they argue with us and don t listen, said Swaran Singh, who mans a parking lot in Sector 35.

Chandigarh residents don t have a craze for cars and other vehicles alone. They are equally crazy about car registration numbers. VIP registration numbers in Chandigarh go for hefty prices.

In recent years, the number 0001 in different registration series has been auctioned at prices ranging from Rs.3 lakh to Rs.10 lakh.

People here buy VIP numbers like 0001 and others at prices at which you can buy a small or even a mid-segment and a luxury car. This is crazy, said entrepreneur Harman Singh.

No rise in university fees for now, says VC

Chandigarh: The Vice Chancellor (VC) of the Punjab University (PU) announced on the occasion of the Republic Day that the university fees will remain the same for the upcoming session from July. It should be noted that the university fee has not been increased for the last four years.

The VC Prof. R C Sobti also said that a toll-free phone help-line will be started for the students. The complaints registered on this number will be dealt within 48 hours.

Another scheme under consideration, whereby the students who follow traffic rules will only have to pay 50% of their insurance, was also announced by the VC.

The VC also said that two new hostels are being constricted while two more will be constructed by 2012. An international hostel and a sports hostel will be constructed as well.

The foundation of a new girls hostel in sector 25 was laid by the VC on Thursday. Currently there are seven hostels for girls in the university and two are already under construction. The new hostel will be completed by 2012.

Panjab University to get two new hostels

Chandigarh: After funds from the Centre were received, the Punjab University has begun its planning for utilisation of the money. The first proposal that has been approved is the building of two new hostels. The construction and development of the new residential buildings will be sponsored from the central funds.

A whopping budget of Rs 12 crore has been approved for the new hostels.

Both hostels will be constructed before the 2012 session begins and will be built in the south campus, situated in sector 25. One of these hostels will be for boys and the other for girls.

The hostels are being constructed due to the increase in the number of seats for both the OBC and the general category.

Foundation stone for the two hostels will be kept on January 26.

Punjab University presently has seven hostels each for boys and girls.

Punjab University felicitates Canada MP

Chandigarh: The Punjab University felicitated one of its alumni, Sukh Dhaliwal, who is a member of Canada s parliament. The Department of Alumni Affairs awarded the Canada MP who represents Newton Delta in the Canada Parliament at a function held at the Golden Jubilee Hall.

The Dean of the Alumni Relation, Professor B S Bhoop, did the honours. Sukh Dhaliwal reminisced about his days at the university and praised the university for the work it is doing.

Former Mayor of the Municipal Corporation and Senator Anu Chatrath, Dean of Research Prof Shashi Sharma, Dean of Management Prof Deepak Kapur, the Dean of Department of Lifelong Learning and Senator D P S Randhawa were also present at the function.

PU to start IAS coaching from Jan 24

Chandigarh: The Centre for AIAAS Coaching, Panjab University is going to start classes for Preliminary examination of Indian Administrative Services (IAS) from January 24.

The interested candidates can submit the application forms by January 15.The entrance test is going to be conducted on January 16 at 11 in the morning.

The interview for passed candidates will be held on January 18.

75-year-old woman murdered in Chandigarh

Chandigarh: A 75-year-old woman, the mother-in-law of Punjabs acting Advocate General Rupinder Khosla, was found murdered in her bungalow in a busy residential area here Thursday. Police said the woman may have been sexually assaulted as well.

According to the police, the deceased was identified as Gurbaz Maninder Mann, who lived alone in Sector 21 here.

Police said they suspected that the victim had been sexually assaulted. Some of her garments had been removed.

The family came to know about the murder when Mann did not answer telephone calls for the last two days.

Mann s grandchildren had come to meet her today. When she did not open the door after repeated knocking, they broke the door to gain entry and found her body, a police officer said here.

We had called forensic experts and they have collected some vital clues. Right now, it is difficult to tell when this murder was committed. The exact picture would be clear only after the post mortem, he added.

Police said that it could be a handiwork of some drug addict.

One of Mann’s daughters, Mohanmeet Khosla, is the chairperson of the School of Communication Studies at Panjab University here.

Many high-profile lawyers and VIPs, including Chandigarhs Senior Superintendent of Police Naunihal Singh, visited the spot.

Our investigation is on. We will solve this case very soon, Singh told reporters.

Mann s family said that she was of a reserved nature and rarely talked to her neighbours.

She was very old and did not come out of her house very often. She was of a reserved nature, one of her family members said.

Additional Advocate General s mother-in-law killed

Chandigarh: Punjab government s Additional Advocate General Rupinder Khosla s 70-year-old mother-in-law was found murdered in her sector-21 house on Thursday here. The shocking incident has laid bare the claims of Chandigarh police which promises of fool proof security in the city.

According to the police, initial investigation pointed out that robbery could be the motive behind the sensational killing of Ajinder Kaur.

Kaur lived alone in her sprawling sector 21 bungalow. Her daughter Mohanmeet Khosla is a lecturer in the Mass Communication department of the Panjab University.

The police have sent the body to post mortem and a massive manhunt was on in the city to nab the culprits.

The murder of the top government official s relative has added to the Chandigarh police s challenge as the incident was reported just a day after the body of a 5-year-old boy, who was kidnapped a fortnight ago, was found in a bag in Mohali.

Khushpreet Singh was kidnapped from outside his residence here on December 21.

Earlier, hundreds of local residents took to streets in Burail area to protest against the ghastly murder of Khuspreet. People shouted slogans against the administration and accused the officials of neglecting the case.

Anti-riot vehicles had to be deployed and traffic on many roads, passing through the area in Sector 45, was diverted as crowd demanded an FIR to be registered against policemen whose alleged negligence led to the mishandling of the case.

Ex- PU prof is new Agra University VC

Chandigarh: Panjab University retired professor DN Johar becomes the new Vice Chancellor of Agra University.

Earlier, Dr Johar was a part of the Law Department of Panjab University.

Soon, he will be handling the post of Vice Chancellor at Agra University.

Till date, the Law Department of Panjab University has given maximum vice chancellors.

LALIT SOOD Versus PUNJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and ANOTHER CWP. No. 19788 of 2010

AMARJIT SINGH Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND OTHERS CIVIL WRIT PETITION NO.19532 OF 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Amarjit Singh
.....Petitioner
VERSUS
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others....Respondents

CORAM:- HONBLE MR.JUSTICE RANJIT SINGH
1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgement?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?
PRESENT: Mr. Namit Gautam, Advocate, for the petitioner.

RANJIT SINGH, J. (ORAL)
So far, the matter is pending before the Panjab University for cancellation of degree. Apparently, the petitioner does not have any locus to seek cancellation of somebody else degree. In any case, let the matter be considered and decided by the Panjab University. No case for interference at this stage is made out.
Dismissed.

( RANJIT SINGH )
JUDGE

SURAJ PARKASH Versus UNION TERRITORY CHANDIGARH Criminal Revision No.1518 of 2005(O AND M)

RAJINDER SINGH Versus CENTRAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION CHANDIGARH

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh

Criminal Misc. No.M- 31195 of 2010

Rajinder Singh
......Petitioner
Versus
Central Bureau of Investigation, Chandigarh
.......Respondent

CORAM: HONBLE MRS. JUSTICE SABINA
Present: Mr.T.S.Sangha, Sr. Advocate with
Mr.J.S.Lalli, Advocate,for the petitioner.

SABINA, J.
This petition has been filed under Section 438 of the Code of Criminal Procedure for grant of anticipatory bail in case FIR No. 051 2010S0011 CBI, SCB, Chandigarh dated 3.10.2010 under Sections 120-B, 419, 420 of the Indian Penal Code. The allegation against the petitioner is that he was to appear in an examination on 3.10.2010, which was being conducted for the post of bus conductor through Panjab University, Chandigarh. Sanjay Bhardwaj, co-accused-non applicant, appeared on behalf of the petitioner in the said examination and the said person was caught red handed. Learned counsel for the petitioner has submitted that the petitioner was innocent and no offence of cheating was made out in this case. After hearing learned counsel for the petitioner, I am of the opinion that no ground for grant of anticipatory bail to the petitioner is made out. The offence alleged to have been committed by the petitioner is serious in nature. Instead of appearing in the written examination himself, the petitioner allowed his co-accused Sanjay Bhardwaj to appear in the examination on his behalf. The petitioner might be required for custodial interrogation. Accordingly, this petition is dismissed.

(SABINA)
JUDGE

PANJAB UNIVERSITY Versus UNION OF INDIA AND ANOTHER Civil Writ Petition N o. 14215 of 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of decision: 13.10.2010

Panjab University ...Petitioner
Versus
Union of India and another ...Respondents
CORAM: HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RANJIT SINGH
Present:
Mr. Deepak Sibal, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. S.S. Sandhu, Advocate for respondent No. 1.
Mr. Gurminder Singh, Advocate for respondent No. 2.

RANJIT SINGH J.
The respondent/Union of India has passed order dated 28.09.2010 and communicated the same to the Principal, Dr. H.S.J. Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Punjab University, South Campus, Sector 25. Copy of the communication is handed over by the counsel for the petitioner in the Court and is kept on record. Though the Central Government has accepted the additional recommendation of the Central Committee and accorded the permission to the petitioner-institution for admitting the students in BDS course with intake capacity of 100 seats for the academic year 2010-11 but the condition has been imposed that the institution will obtain clearance from the Supreme Court to the effect that such permission would not violate the earlier order of the Honble Supreme Court to the effect that 15th July would be last date for grant of permission in the relevant academic year. Thus, the relief claimed in the present writ petition is granted though on a condition. The present writ petition, therefore, is rendered infructuous and is disposed of as such. The counsel for the petitioner, however, prays for liberty to challenge the impugned communication to an extent it has imposed condition on the petitioner-institution to approach the Honble Supreme Court. Liberty available under law will always remain with the institution.

(RANJIT SINGH)
JUDGE

LALIT GOYAT Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and ANOTHER R.A.No.234 of 2010 (O and M) and Civil Writ Petition No.17993 of 2009

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Lalit Goyat Vs. Panjab University, Chandigarh and another
Present: Mr.Saurabh Dalal, Advocate, for the petitioner.

RANJIT SINGH, J.
The present writ petition was dismissed on 27.7.2010 by observing that there is no reason to condone 52 lectures by which the petitioner was falling short. Now an application has been moved for review of the order primarily on the ground that the lectures have already been condoned by the respondents and the order passed by this court is now standing in the way of the petitioner for grant of necessary consequential relief. That in itself would not be a ground to review the order. However, the counsel at this stage submits that writ petition may be dismissed as not pressed as the necessary relief had already been granted by the time the order was passed, which fact could not be brought to the notice of the court on account of nonpresence of the counsel at the time the writ petition was dismissed. In this view of the peculiar facts, the present writ petition is dismissed as not pressed. Any observation made in the impugned order may not have the effect on the order passed by the respondents in condoning the lectures.

(RANJIT SINGH)
JUDGE

VED VERT Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and OTHERS CWP. No. 18128 of 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Ved Vert --Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others --Respondents
CORAM:- HONBLE MR.JUSTICE PERMOD KOHLI.
Present:-
Mr. N.K. Nagar, Advocate for the petitioner.

PERMOD KOHLI.J (ORAL)
Notice of motion.
Mr. Ashish Rawal, Advocate present in the Court has been asked to accept notice on behalf of Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate for respondents. Keeping in view the nature of relief claimed and with the consent of learned counsel for the parties, this petition is being disposed of at the motion stage itself. The petitioner was working as a driver. It is alleged that he was given additional duties. Petitioner claims that he is entitled to 10% of additional pay and D.A for performing the additional duties under the rules. Petitioner has made a representation (Annexure P-11) in this respect but no decision has been taken thereon till date. Learned counsel for the petitioner submits that the petitioner would be satisfied, if, respondents are directed to take decision on the representation made by the petitioner, referred to above. In view of the above, this petition is disposed of with a direction to the competent authority of the university to take decision on the representation made by the petitioner, within a period of three months from the date certified copy of this order is served upon the said authority. Needless to say that in the event the claim of the petitioner is to be rejected, the same shall be by a reasoned and speaking order. The petitioner is also at liberty to make supplementary representation, if, so desired within a period of two weeks, which shall also be taken into consideration while deciding the controversy.

(PERMOD KOHLI)
JUDGE

AMAN PREET SINGH Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND ANOTHER CIVIL MISC. NO.14156 OF 2010 and CWP NO.17612 OF 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Aman Preet Singh
.....Petitioner
VERSUS
Panjab University, Chandigarh and another
....Respondents

CORAM:- HONBLE MR.JUSTICE RANJIT SINGH
1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgement?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?
PRESENT: Mr. Karminder Singh, Advocate, for the petitioner.

RANJIT SINGH, J.

CIVIL MISC. NO.14156 OF 2010
Documents taken on record and writ petition is preponed for hearing to today.
Application disposed of.

CIVIL WRIT PETITION NO.17612 OF 2010

The petitioner is an applicant for seat in three years LL.B Course in the category of N.R.I candidate. His rank in the entrance test conducted by the respondent University is 342. As per the merit list, his name would appear at 284. He, however, has not been CIVIL WRIT PETITION NO.17612 OF 2010 :{ 2 }:

granted admission despite the fact that 27 seats were reserved for N.R.I candidates. The petitioner has averred that seats have been filled up from the category of backward class candidates, though there was no provision made for such a reservation in the prospectus or otherwise. This position is not factually correct because in the other connected matters, it has been pleaded before this Court that initially, the University could not provide reservation for backward class category candidates, which has now been subsequently provided. Since it is a constitutional mandate to make reservation for backward class category candidates, the action of the University can not be said to be suffering from any illegality. The prayer made in the writ petition, thus, is without merit and the writ petition, therefore, is dismissed.

(RANJIT SINGH)
JUDGE

GURJINDER SINGH Versus VICE CHANCELLOR PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND CIVIL WRIT PETITION NO.13619 OF 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: OCTOBER 04, 2010
Gurjinder Singh .....Petitioner
VERSUS
Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh and others ....Respondents

CORAM:- HONBLE MR.JUSTICE RANJIT SINGH
1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgement?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?
PRESENT: Mr. C. L. Premy, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate,
for respondent Nos.1 and 2.
Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Advocate, for respondent No.4.

RANJIT SINGH, J.
The petitioner, who was a claimant for a seat in the LL.B course with respondent-University has filed this writ petition for quashing letter, Annexure P-5, whereby Joint Admission Committee had rejected the objection raised by the petitioner qua the admission of respondent No.4 in the category of backward class. The petitioner belongs to backward class category, but could not apply for admission in this reserved category as initially no reservation was made for backward class candidates in the prospectus issued by the Panjab University. On 29.6.2010, Syndicate took a decision to reserve 5% seats for backward class in the University and the Regional Centres. A corrigendum was issued for permitting the candidates to submit their forms under backward class category upto 12.7.2010. The candidates, who had originally submitted their application forms, but had not mentioned their category, could also contact the Department for incorporating the change upto 12.7.2010. The petitioner accordingly submitted his application well in time.

The counselling was held on 22.7.2010 and respondent No.4 was allotted seat at Regional Centre, Hoshiarpur, in the category of general class candidate. Respondent No.4 again appeared for counselling on 23.7.2010 in the category of backward class candidate without producing any certificate. It is stated that he simply submitted an affidavit alongwith the certificate of his father, showing him to be a backward class. The petitioner objected to this manner being adopted by Joint Admission Committee. Still, respondent No.4 was held eligible, though he had not applied in the said category within the stipulated time nor had produced any certificate. The petitioner, therefore, submitted a representation on 23.7.2010 against this. This representation was rejected on 30.7.2010. Though the petitioner could have been admitted in the reserved category of backward class, but his chance is taken away by the petitioner to get admission in the University Campus. The petitioner, however, has been admitted in LL.B Course but not in the University Campus.

Separate replies have been filed on behalf of University as well as respondent No.4. Explaining the reason for considering respondent No.4 eligible in backward class category, it is stated that the backward class certificates were accepted after July 12, 2010 and even after the date of counselling, not only in the case of respondent No.4 but for several other candidates as well. In all, 9 candidates were admitted in B.A. LL.B Five years integrated course and out of these only one had submitted his backward class certificate on 12.7.2010. Two candidates submitted such certificates on 21.7.2010 and one candidate submitted this certificate on 22.7.2010 while the remaining five candidates submitted their certificates on 23.7.2010.

So far as case of respondent No.4 is concerned, it is pointed out that his father had submitted his certificate showing himself to be a backward class. The University sought an opinion from legal expert nominated for the purpose. The father of respondent No.4 was thereafter asked to submit a certificate that respondent No.4 was his son. Accordingly, he was considered for admission in the backward class category candidate. Later on, he produced a certificate in this regard as well. This approach on the part of the University is sought to be justified on the ground that initially, no reservation was made for backward class category candidates. As per the counsel of the University, a liberal approach was adopted to consider the case of such candidates and the admission was granted purely on the basis of merit. A case for diluting the requirement of submission of all relevant and proper documents apparently is made out having regard to these peculiar facts. None of the candidates could have made an application in this reserved category as the reservation was made subsequent to the issuance of prospectus. Though the corrigendum was issued and the date for submission of the application/certificate was also provided but still the approach on the part of the University to consider the cases of backward class category candidates upto the date of counselling appears just and reasonable. Such an approach normally may not be permissible, if initially reservation had been made for said category. It is this special facet of the case that will require special consideration. The objections filed by the petitioner were duly considered and rejected by adopting a fair and reasonable approach. The petitioner has also been granted admission, though not in the University Campus. Thus, the fight is not for getting the seat but a seat at place of choice for study. In view of these peculiar facts and circumstances, I am not inclined to interfere in exercise of writ jurisdiction. The writ petition is accordingly dismissed.

(RANJIT SINGH)
JUDGE

RESHAM SINGH Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and OTHERS Civil Writ Petition No.12599 of 2010

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Resham Singh Vs. Panjab University Chandigarh and others
Present:
Mr.Rahul Rampal, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Ms.Alka Chatrath, Advocate,for respondent Nos.1 to 3.

RANJIT SINGH, J.
On 13.9.2010, counsel for the University has stated that the University would declare the result. As per the counsel for the petitioner, result so far has not been declared. Counsel for the University points out that the matter is subjudice before a civil court.

Let the result be declared within a period of two weeks from today. In case the petitioner is left with any grievance, he may file a fresh petition. The result be declared subject to the outcome of the civil suit.
The present writ petition is disposed of.

(RANJIT SINGH)
JUDGE

ANUREET KAUR Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND ANOTHER Civil Writ Petition No. 2324 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Anureet Kaur ...Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and another ...Respondents
Present: Mr. Rajinder Goyal, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. Ashish Rawal, Advocate for the respondents.

RANJIT SINGH J.
Having completed her B.Sc. (IT) from Guru Nanak Dev University securing 76% marks, the petitioner took admission in MCA after qualifying in the entrance examination. In the year 2002, she cleared her first semester of MCA getting 76.85% marks. The petitioner got married and shifted to Canada. Because of this, she had to discontinue her studies. The University celebrated its Diamond Jubilee year in 2007 and as a goodwill gesture decided to grant special chance to the students of professional and non-professional courses to complete their courses left incomplete. The petitioner had come back to India during November 2007 and submitted a representation to the respondent-University for condoning the intervening gap period and permitting her to get admission in MCA 2nd semester during academic session 2007-08, for the purpose of enabling her to complete the course. The matter was referred to Syndicate for considering the request. In its meeting held on 08.01.2008, Syndicate allowed the request of the petitioner. This was intimated to the petitioner. The petitioner then duly deposited the tuition fee. Suddenly on 04.02.2008 the petitioner was informed that, as per the orders passed by the Vice Chancellor, her re-admission was to be kept in abeyance till further orders. She received another letter on 18.02.2008 informing that admission granted to her stood cancelled.

The petitioner, accordingly, filed this writ petition.

Under the interim order passed by this Court, the petitioner has completed study of the course and has appeared in the examination also. The detailed marks card has also been issued to the petitioner. Considering the facts and background of this case, counsel appearing for the University was required to have instructions, if the admission of the petitioner could be regularized and she could be awarded degree. Today, the counsel appearing for the University submits that the Court may pass any appropriate order directing regularization of the admission/study of the petitioner. The petitioner has completed the course and has appeared in the examination. She had already been issued detailed mark sheet. There is no valid reason to deny the benefit of the study and the successful competition of the course by the petitioner. It is, therefore, now appropriate to direct the University to regularise the admission granted to the petitioner. The petitioner would be deemed to have studied in the 2nd MCA course validly and the necessary consequences including the issuance of degree may follow in due course.

The present writ petition is, accordingly, dismissed.

(RANJIT SINGH)
JUDGE

RANJIT BAJAJ AND OTHERS Versus STATE OF HARYANA AND ANOTHER Criminal Misc. No.M-15181 of 2010

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh

Ranjit Bajaj and others .....Petitioners
v.
State of Haryana and another .....Respondents
....
Present: Mr. Anurag Arora, Advocate for the petitioners.
Mr. K.C. Gupta, Senior Deputy Advocate General, Haryana for respondent-State.
Mr. Deepinder Brar, Advocate for the complainantrespondent
No.2.
......
S.S. Saron, J.

Heard learned counsel for the parties. The petitioner seeks quashing of the FIR dated 30.1.2010 (Annexure-P.1) registered at Police Station Chandimandir, District Panchkula for the offences under Sections 323, 307, 506, 295-A read with Section 34 Indian Penal Code (`IPC for short). The FIR has been registered on the statement of Gurmohan Singh Bedi (respondent No.2). It is alleged that he is a student of third year of the University Institute of Legal Studies in the Panjab University. On the date of the incident i.e. 30.1.2010 he along with his friend Amarbir Singh Salar had gone to Hotel North Park at 9.30 p.m. to attend the party organized by SJOBA (St. John Old Boys Association) for Winter Ball. At about 1.30 p.m. (sic. - a.m.) after the party was over, he was standing outside the gate of the hotel. At that time a car No.CHI-1 make IKON with three young boys drove over the foot of the complainant. The complainant said that brother be careful while driving. After that one gunman, whose name the complainant later came to know was Mahender Singh (petitioner No.2), came to him and hit his lip with the butt of his pistol. As a result of which the complainant suffered an injury on the left lower lip. Thereafter, Ranjit Bajaj (petitioner No.1) and the second gunman (petitioner No.3), whose name the complainant did not know but could recognize if he sees him came to him. Ranjit Bajaj (petitioner No.1) took the pistol of Mahender Singh (petitioner No.2) and the second gunman (petitioner No.3) also took out his pistol. They put their respective pistols on the head and chest of the complainant with an intention to kill him. They removed the turban of Amarbir Singh Salar and caught his beard. After this a lot of people gathered and the complainant ran inside the hotel to save himself. The accused also left while holding out threats.

Learned counsel for the petitioners has submitted that the matter has been compromised with the complainant-Gurmohan Singh Bedi. It is submitted that the case relates to a minor dispute between students at a party of old students association and in any case it is not a case from which it can be said that there was any intention on the part of the petitioners to commit the murder of the complainant so as to make out a case for the offence under Section 307 IPC. Reply by way of affidavit of Ms. Iqbal Kaur, HPS, Deputy Superintendent of Police, City, Panchkula has been filed. It is stated that the FIR was registered on the complaint of Gurmohan Singh Bedi. The petitioner No.1 was arrested on 3.3.2010, Malkhan Singh (petitioner No.3) was arrested on 8.3.2010 and Mahender Singh (petitioner No.2) was arrested on 12.3.2010. During investigation the licensed revolver was recovered from Malkhan Singh (petitioner No.3), which was used at the time of occurrence. After completion of investigation the challan has been submitted before the Illaqa Magistrate on 17.5.2010 and the case is fixed for framing of charges. The charges in the case have not been framed till date. Mr. Deepinder Brar, Advocate appearing for the complainantrespondent No.2 and for Amarbir Singh Salar has submitted that the complainant and the injured Amarbir Singh Salar have deposed affidavits to the effect that the matter has been compromised. The complainant Gurmohan Singh Bedi in his affidavit dated 4.8.2010 has submitted that the petitioners have apologized before him and the matter has been settled with the intervention of elders and he does not wish to pursue the matter. Similar affidavit dated 14.9.2010 has been filed by Amarbir Singh Salar. The compromise dated 12.5.2010 (Annexure-P.2) is on record in which both the parties have stated that they have arrived at an amicable settlement with the intervention of elders and the complainant does not wish to pursue the matter. Learned counsel for the State has submitted that in the facts and circumstances the State would have no serious objection to the quashing of the FIR in view of the dispute amongst the students being amicably resolved. After giving my thoughtful consideration to the matter, it may be noticed that a skirmish had occurred on the intervening night of 29/30.1.2010. The complainant Gurmohan Singh Bedi and his friend Amarbir Singh Salar had gone to Hotel North Park at 9.30 p.m. to attend the Winter Ball party being organized by SJOBA (St. John Old Boys Association). After the party was over at about 1.30 a.m., the petitioner No.1 drove his car over the foot of the complainant. The complainant stated that brother be careful while driving. After that one gunman, whose name the complainant later came to know was Mahender Singh (petitioner No.2), came to him and hit his lip with the butt of his pistol. The complainant suffered an injury on the left lower lip.

In the meantime, the second gunman (petitioner No.3), whom the complainant could not recognize came to the complainant. The petitioner No.1 took the pistol of Mahender Singh and the second gunman also took out his pistol and both put their respective pistols
on the head and chest of the complainant with an intention to kill him. Besides, they removed the turban of Amarbir Singh Salar and caught his beard. A supplementary statement of the complainant was recorded on 30.1.2010. It is stated by the complainant that the previous night after the party was over at North Park at about 1.30 a.m. when he along with his friend Amarbir Singh and Puneet Chadha were coming out of the venue and going home then petitioner No.1 and his gunmen (petitioners No.2 and 3) had beaten him. Besides, petitioner No.1 had put his pistol on his ear lobe and pressed the trigger but it misfired. The complainant in order to save his life ran inside the hotel. When he made his earlier statement he was under fear and he forgot to narrate this aspect. It may be noticed that it is on account of the supplementary statement of the complainant that the offence under Section 307 IPC had been added. The matter in any case has now been compromised and it is a case of skirmish on account of a trivial incident, which occurred at the spur of moment and without any pre-meditation. In the initial statement made by the complainant, it was not m ntioned that the pistol was put on the ear lobe of the complainant and the trigger was pressed but the pistol misfired. This aspect has been stated in the supplementary statement. In respect of a case which is registered for the offence under Section 307 IPC, the FIR is not normally to be quashed on the basis of compromise as it is a serious offence. However, it is to be determined and ascertained in the facts and circumstances of each case whether the said offence on the basis of material on record indeed is made out. The offence under Section 307 IPC has been attributed primarily because petitioner No.1 had put his pistol on the ear lobe of the complainant and pressed the trigger but it misfired. It is, however, an admitted case that no injury has been attributed to anyone and the pistol did not actually fire. Therefore, in case, the petitioner No.1 is said to have put his pistol on the ear lobe of the complainant and is said to have pressed the trigger, it would be required to be ascertained from the attending facts and circumstances whether there was indeed an intention on his part to commit the murder of the complainant. In order to consider whether the offence under Section 307 IPC is made out or not, the provisions of Section 307 IPC may be noticed, which reads as follows:-
307. Attempt to murder :- Whoever does any act with such intention or knowledge, and under such circumstances that, if he by that act caused death, he would be guilty of murder, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term hich may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine; and if hurt is caused to any person by such act, the offender shall be liable either to imprisonment for life, or to such punishment as is hereinbefore mentioned.

Attempt by life convicts - When any person offending under this section is under sentence of imprisonment for life, he may, if hurt is caused, be punished with death. In order to ascertain whether an offence under Section 307 IPC is made out or not, the important aspect that is to be determined is the intention or knowledge. If the intention or knowledge of the accused is to commit the murder and murder is not actually committed, the offence would be made out. Section 307 IPC is in two parts. The first part envisages such intention or knowledge and such circumstances that the act done by the offender would cause death and he would be guilty of murder. The second part relates to causing of hurt by such act that was of having an intention or knowledge and under such circumstances that by such an act death would be caused and the offender is guilty of murder. This also constitutes an offence of attempt to murder. Therefore, the substance of the offence, is the intention or knowledge that the act which is done is such that death would be caused and the offender would be guilty of murder but death is not actually caused. Besides, another important aspect is to be kept in view is the existence of motive to cause death which is a relevant consideration.

Taking the totality of the facts and circumstances into consideration, it is to be judged whether there was an intention to commit murder or an inference could be drawn that there was an intention to cause injury which may result in death. In Kundan Singh v. State of Punjab, AIR 1982 SC 62, the victim therein had received simple injuries from gun shots fired from the gun by the accused. The injured were in the courtyard of their house, when the accused therein opened fire. It was held that the accused could not have intended to injure them and the conviction of the appellant in the said case for the offence under section 307 I.P.C. was held to be not made out. In Sarju Prasad v. State of Bihar, AIR 1965 SC 843, it was held by the Honble Supreme Court that to attract the provisions of Section 307 I.P.C., the prosecution is to establish the intention of the accused that the injury which was caused was one of the kinds referred in Section 300 I.P.C. and unless the prosecution discharges the burden, the offence under Section 307 I.P.C. cannot be brought home. A knife blow was caused in the said case on a vital region of the injured but no vital organ of the injured was cut on account of the injury.

The accused was convicted by the High Court for an offence under Section 307 I.P.C. The Supreme Court held that the state of mind has to be deduced from the surrounding circumstances. Besides, also the existence of a motive to cause death would be a relevant consideration. Taking the totality of the circumstances into consideration, it was held that there was no intention to commit murder nor an inference could be drawn that there was an intention to cause injury which may result in death. Accordingly, it was held that the prosecution had failed to make out and establish the offence under Section 307 IPC. As has already been noticed in the present case a skirmish occurred at an old school boys get-together at the spur of the moment and without any pre-meditation. The act of putting the pistol on the ear lobe of the complainant and pressing the trigger, which admittedly did not fire would by itself not make out an offence under Section 307 IPC as no intention is shown on the part of the petitioners to commit the murder of the complainant. There was indeed no enmity between the parties to the skirmish and there was no motive for the petitioners to commit the murder of the complainant or make an attempt to murder the complainant. Therefore, it can be said that there was no intention on the part of the petitioner No.1 to commit the murder of the complainant. This is more so for the reason that the dispute in any case has been amicably settled, which even otherwise is personal in nature between the students.

The complainant and Amarbir Singh Salar have stated that the petitioners have apologized. Therefore, in order to maintain personal relations, friendship and goodwill amongst the students and to avoid bitterness and rancour between them, it would be just and expedient that the proceedings are terminated by quashing the FIR. In Madan Mohan Abbot v. State of Punjab, (2008) 4 SCC 582, it was observed by the Supreme Court as follows:
We need to emphasise that it is perhaps advisable that in disputes where the question involved is of a purely personal nature, the Court should ordinarily accept the terms of the compromise even in criminal proceedings as keeping the matter alive with no possibility of a result in favour of the prosecution is a luxury which the Courts, grossly overburdened as they are, cannot afford and that the time so saved can be utilised in deciding more effective and meaningful litigation. This is a common sense approach to the matter based on ground of realities and bereft of the technicalities of the law. Besides, a larger Bench of this Court in Kulwinder Singh and others v. State of Punjab and another, 2007 (3) RCR (Cr.) 1052 (5 Judges) has observed as follows: 27. The power to do complete justice is the very essence of every judicial justice dispensation system. It cannot be diluted by distorted perceptions and is not a slave to anything, except to the caution and circumspection, the standards of which the Court sets before it, in exercise of such plenary and unfettered power inherently vested in it while donning the cloak of compassion to achieve the ends of justice. No embargo, be in the shape of Section 320 (9) of the Cr.P.C., or any other such curtailment, can whittle down the power under Section 482 of the Cr.P.C. 28.

The compromise, in a modern society, is the sine qua non of harmony and orderly behavior. It is the soul of justice and if the power under Section 482 of the Cr.P.C. is used to enhance such a compromise which, in turn, enhances the social amity and reduces friction, then it truly is `finest hour of justice. Disputes which have their genesis in a matrimonial discord, landlord-tenant matters, commercial transactions and other such matters can safely be dealt with by the Court by exercising its powers under Section 482 of the Cr.P.C. in the event of a compromise, but this is not to say that the power is limited to such cases. There can never be any such rigid rule to prescribe the exercise of such power, especially in the absence of any premonitions to forecast and predict eventualities which the cause of justice may throw up during the course of a litigation.
In view of the above said facts and circumstances, the present criminal miscellaneous petition is allowed and the impugned FIR No.24 dated 30.1.2010 (Annexure-P.1) registered at Police Station Chandimandir, District Panchkula for the offences under Sections 323, 307, 506, 295-A read with Section 34 IPC and all consequential and subsequent proceedings in pursuance thereof shall stand quashed.

(S.S. Saron)
Judge

Candlelight march held at PU

National Students Union of India organised a candlelight march in the Panjab University to make an appeal to youngsters to come up and fight against violence focussing on the Kashmir issue.
The candle march was accompanied by students in a large number to support the cause. Randeep Singh Khaira, State President said that riot incidents in the valley are increasing day by day and every effort should be made to bring back prosperity and peace in the beautiful valley.

Candlelight march held at PU

52 PU toppers get scholarships at alumni meet

Chandigarh As many as 52 Panjab University (PU) toppers (27 from the colleges and 25 from the PU departments) in their respective disciplines during the the academic session 2009-10 were awarded scholarships along with complimentary lifetime memberships during the 40th Annual General Body Meeting and Scholarship Award Function of the Panjab University Alumni Association (PUAA) held at the Golden Jubilee Hall of the PU campus today.
Among the resolutions passed were the modalities for awarding library membership to PUAA members, PUAA membership to all those who have passed any examination from Panjab University other than graduation degree (Matric, Giani, Prabhakar, Visharad, Pre-Medical, Pre-engineering) and a member who would bring 25 or more alumni into the folds of PUAA would be duly honoured at the AGM.

Making an announcement on the number of life members, including 17 overseas and nine Patron members, crossing the total mark above 4,600, Dean Alumni Relations and PU Alumni Association Secretary Prof Bhupinder Singh Bhoop said, The provision for online membership has also been initiated. The Department of Alumni Relations will shortly undertake the construction of 24 more rooms in the Alumni Guest House out of the funds collected by Alumni House. Also on the cards is the construction of a Seniors Home (Old Age Home) for which Rs 2 crore has already been sanctioned by Panjab University.
The next Alumni meet, to be held on January 27, 2012, will include all those who have graduated from PU on or before 1975. The function was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Professor R C Sobti.
Professor Bhoop welcomed the guests and presented the Annual Report. In his report, Prof Bhoop highlighted the various activities and achievements of the department since last year, especially the holding of the first ever alumni meet on the Panjab University campus.

In his presidential remarks, Prof Sobti said that the alma mater can take care of the alumni through various projects while maintaining both transparency and accountability. He shared details of the Universitys endeavour to improve the quality and accessibility of the education.

The university has given an option to all the its students to take up their unfinished education or doctoral research and permitted college lecturers to supervise PhDs. Another feature of the function was the felicitation of all former Dean Alumni Relations including Prof G S Gosal, Prof H S Vashisht, Prof Harkishan Singh, Prof M M Puri (former Vice-Chancellor), Prof IBS Passi, Prof H R Pajni, Prof V K Bansal, Prof M L Sharma, Prof Tajinder Gill and Prof Sobti himself.

cr brings shooting within range of Panjab University

Chandigarh Aspiring shooters at Panjab University, Chandigarh, can now fulfil their dreams. The much-awaited shooting range is finally coming up at the university.

The shooting range with international standards has been designed on the lines of the one at Badal, Punjab. Keeping in mind the talent this region has in shooting and the bright chances by students to make an international mark in the sport, Panjab University had proposed a shooting range at the campus around two years ago. But due to non-availability of funds, the project could not materialise.Now, with the sanction of Rs one crore for the construction of the range, students are expecting the training facility to be soon available in the campus.

The architectural and building designs have been finalised and recently even tenders for the construction were floated. It would come up at one of the corners of the main playground in the campus. The area for the centrally air-conditioned, sound proof shooting range would be 40 metres by 20 metres, said Director Sports, Panjab University, C S Grewal.

The director revealed that initially only selected candidates would be allowed to use the range. Once the building is completed, the appointment of a coach would be done. There is also the possibility that the coach can be hired on ad hoc basis from the Sport Authority of India (SAI) as we already have some coaches for other sports from SAI, Grewal added. Apart from shooting, the university is keen on encouraging other sports like wrestling and boxing.

Expelled for ragging, six denied from taking exams for two years

Chandigarh The Punjab and Haryana High Court has denied permission to six students of the Panjab University to appear for their final examination of MA (Theatre) for two years.
Justice Permod Kohli came down heavily on the students for indulging in the indecent act of ragging and ruled that the guilty are not normal human beings.

Referring to the rules laid down by the Syndicate body, Justice Kohli held the students deserve no compassion from the court. The directions were passed on a joint petition filed by six students including Baldev Raj, Amritpal Singh and others of the Theatre Department of the university. The accused were students of MA Second Year and were expelled from the department and the hostel for ragging their juniors.

On August 9, 2008, the accused forced the juniors to take off their clothes and perform obscene sexual acts. They were also photographed in the nude with mobile phones. Acting on the complaint filed by the students, the university constituted an anti-ragging committee. On August 11, 2008, the six accused, however, managed to obtain a letter from victims for withdrawal of complaint against them. The six also apologised and undertook that they will not indulge in such activities in future.

After investigation, the university expelled the six from the department and hostel. Aggrieved, they moved the high court challenging the expulsion. Dismissing their petition, Justice Permod Kohli ruled, Their behaviour during ragging where freshers were forced to remove their clothes and indulge in obscene acts in presence of a number of persons is sufficient to draw an inference that petitioners are not normal human beings. Such actions demonstrate their perverted thoughts. The petitioners deserve no compassion from this court.

Expressing his concern on the increasing menace of ragging and its affects, Justice Kohli ruled, Ragging in education institutions has taken dangerous proportions in the recent times. Reports of deaths and students committing suicide due to ragging have shaken the student community.

Taking cognizance of such unfortunate, painful and inhuman acts the Supreme Court has issued various directions which sufficiently indicate the concern of the apex court with regard to incidents of ragging.
The court referred to Regulation 7 in Panjab University Calendar Volume III Chapter (XVI) which deals with expulsion.
From the above regulation it appears that expulsion is for a minimum period of two years. Petitioners will have to suffer punishment for their indecent acts. The petitioners will be entitled to appear in examination only after punishment contemplated under Rule 7, the order reads.
The rules say

The university regulation reads, A student who is expelled from a college will not be re-admitted to same or any other college without sanction of the Syndicate. An expelled student will not be allowed to appear in any university examination during the academic year which he is expelled and the following year.

Consumers need not worry in times of recession: experts

Vocalist Dr Suhasini Karotkar performs at PU

Eminent vocalist Dr Suhasini Karotkar performed at the Department of Music, Panjab University, on Thursday. A disciple of Pandit T D Janorikar of Bhendi Bazar Gharana, she presented three compositions in Raga Jog. Senior faculty member of the department, Dr Saroj Ghosh, presented a lecture on techniques of playing the sitar. She presented compositions in Raga Saraswati and Kirvani.

Student-teacher body plans campaign to get Central status for PU

Chandigarh: Representatives of teachers and students met at the Students Centre in Panjab University on Wednesday to deliberate over the future course of action on the issue of Central status. The representatives met under the banner of Students-Teachers Action Committee (STAC ) for Central university status to PU.

In the previous meeting, it was decided to prepare a draft on the comparative fee structure of PU vis-à-vis other Central universities. Posters showing the gap in fees would be displayed in the university along with those listing out the possible benefits of a Central status to educate students and people at large.

During Wednesdays meeting, it was decided unanimously that a rigorous campaign would be launched to mobilise students for the cause. STAC is demanding that PU be granted the status of a Central university, without any compromise in its present structure. As is the case with many other Central universities, colleges would remain affiliated to PU even after it is granted the status.

JATINDER SINGH Vs STATE OF PUNJAB

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Crl. Rev. No. 2287 of 2009

Date of Decision: 16.12.2009

Jatinder Singh ....Petitioner
Versus
State of Punjab ...Respondent

CORAM :
Honble Ms. Justice Nirmaljit Kaur

Present:-
Mr. Rakesh Kumar Garg, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. K.S. Pannu, D.A.G., Punjab

1. Whether Reporters of Local Newspapers may be allowed to see the judgment ?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not ?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest ?

NIRMALJIT KAUR, J.
This is a petition against the judgment and sentence order dated 02.09.2008 passed by the Sub Divisional Judicial Magistrate, Nabha and also the judgment order dated 25.08.2009 passed by the Additional
Sessions Judge, Patiala.

Brief facts of the case are that the petitioner was sentenced for one year under Section 411 IPC and a fine of Rs.1000/- with further sentence of two months in default of payment of fine vide order dated 02.09.2008 passed by Sub Divisional Judicial Magistrate. The appeal against the said order was dismissed vide order dated 25.08.2009 passed by the Additional Sessions Judge, Patiala and the conviction as well as quantum of sentence was maintained.

While challenging the judgment dated 02.09.2008 of the trial Court as well as the judgment dated 25.08.2009 of the Appellate Court, learned counsel for the petitioner submitted that there are material contradictions with the number of the vehicle. Further no vehicle was ever recovered from the accused at any time and the prosecution had failed to prove the registration copy of the alleged Motor Cycle. There is no evidence on record to prove that the alleged vehicle was recovered from the accused.

It was further stated that the statements made by Ajay Gautam and Arvind Gautam as PW1 and PW2 is not enough to say that the alleged recovered motor cycle is their ownership. Further, no independent witness was joined by the public party.

Learned counsel for the parties are heard.

While dismissing the appeal, the Additional Sessions Judge, Patiala, recorded the following findings :-

11. A perusal of the record has shown that the PW4 HC Jaspal Singh, Police Station West, Chandigarh has proved on record the FIR No.176 dated 13.05.2001 as Ex.PW4/A on the file. The said FIR has been got registered by Arvind Gautam who has appeared as PW2 in this case. Arvind Gautam in his FIR to the police has stated that he had parked his
motor cycle No.HR-20-A-0857 of red colour Bajaj Caliber in front of A.C. Joshi Library, Punjab University, Chandigarh at 3 p.m. on 13.05.2001 but at 6 p.m., hen he came out of the library, he did not find his motor cycle there. After making his efforts to trace the same, he got the FIR registered. The said FIR Ex. PW4/A clearly mentions that the stolen motor cycle was Bajaj Caliber and was of red colour having Chassis No.DDE BFC-31404 and Engine No.DDM BFC-99578.

The motor cycle which recovered from the appellant/accused also bears the same Chassis and Engine No. It is a different matter that the registration number of the motor cycle recovered is HR-06-G-59 and that of the stolen one vide FIR Ex.PW4/A is HP-20-A-0857. It can be well inferred that the person of such nature, who is in possession of stolen motor cycle, must have put a fictitious number plate over his motor cycle, otherwise the appellant/accused has not been able to prove the registration number of the said motor cycle in his name. Meaning thereby, he was not able to satisfy PW3 ASI Shashi Kapoor, investigation officer of this case regarding his ownership of the motor cycle in question. When he has not been able to prove the ownership of the motor cycle, then, inference is to be drawn that the appellant/accused had retained the said
motor cycle knowing fully well that the same was a stolen property. PW1 Ajay Gautam has proved his ownership of the said motor cycle. PW2 Arvind Gupta has proved the theft of his motor cycle No.HP-20-A- 0857 Bajaj Caliber make. All this shows that the prosecution has fully proved that the appellant/accused was in possession of the motor cycle No.HP-20-A-0857 which was a stolen property.

In view of the above, I find no illegality or infirmity in the judgment and decree passed by the Courts below. After arguing for some time, learned counsel for the petitioner restricted his prayer to the quantum of sentence. Accordingly, the conviction of the petitioner is upheld.

Learned counsel for the petitioner however pleaded for grant of probation. The present case is a case of theft. Releasing the petitioner on probation will only encourage the habit of the petitioner in the commission of such like offences. The grant of probation to the petitioner is, accordingly, declined. However, taking into account the fact that the petitioner is a young man and has got a family to support, the sentence
already awarded to the petitioner is reduced from rigorous imprisonment of one year under Section 411 IPC to nine months of rigorous imprisonment.

However, the amount of fine shall remain same and in default of payment
of the same, the petitioner shall further undergo rigorous imprisonment for two months as already held by the Courts below.

Disposed of in the above said terms.

(NIRMALJIT KAUR)
JUDGE

SIMRANJIT SINGH Vs DIRECTOR UNIVERSITY INSTITUTE OF LEGAL STUDIES P

CWP No.18754 OF 2009

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh

Date of decision: 14.12..2009

Simranjit Singh ... Petitioner
Versus
Director, University Institute of Legal Studies, Panjab University and others ... Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE PERMOD KOHLI

Present:
Mr.Ajay Singh, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Ms.Pooja Bishnoi, Advocate,for
Mr.Anupam Gupta, Advocate.

PERMOD KOHLI, J. (Oral):
The petitioner is seeking admission to 5th Semester of the University Institute of Legal Studies i.e. Five Lears Law Course. It is stated that the petitioner has cleared fifty percent of the papers of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th semesters in terms of Regulation 6 (ii) of the Rules Regulating Admission and Promotions to B.A.., LL. B (Hons.) Five Years Integrated Course which provides that if a candidate clears 50 percent of the previous semester, he is entitled to admission to the next semesters.

To the contrary, learned counsel appearing for the University has argued that the petitioner was required to clear 50 percent papers of 1st and 2nd semesters and 50 percent of 3rd and 4th semesters to become eligible for admission to the next semester/year. From the perusal of Regulation 6 (ii) of the aforesaid Regulations, it appears that 50 percent papers are required to be cleared of 1st and 2nd semesters as also 50 percent of 3rd and 4th semesters, separately.

The petitioner has cleared only 2 papers out of ten in 3rd and 4th semesters. The petitioner is, thus, not eligible for seeking admission to 5th Semester of the course in question.

For the reasons recorded above, I find no merit in the present writ petition and the same is hereby dismissed. No costs.

(PERMOD KOHLI)
JUDGE

PU students can get their attendance status, result on SMS

The SMS-based result and attendance verification service at Panjab University was inaugurated by Vice-Chancellor Professor R C Sobti at the University Institute of Engineering and Technology on Friday. Results and attendance can be obtained by sending an SMS, ATT for attendance and RES for results to 9417589392. Students as well as parents can check the status of the attendance and results, irrespective of their location, just by sending an SMS. Sobti announced an award of Rs 10,000 each to faculty members Naveen Aggarwal and Amandeep Singh and a cash prize of Rs 5,000 to all students who were associated with the project.

PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH VsRAJMAN YADAV AND OTHERS LPA 295 of 2009(O and M)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 05.11.2009

Panjab University, Chandigarh. -----Appellant
Vs.
Rajman Yadav and others. -----Respondents

CORAM:-
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ADARSH KUMAR GOEL
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE GURDEV SINGH

Present:-
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate for the appellant.
Mr. Vikas Bahl, Advocate,
Mr. R.D. Bawa, Advocate and
Mr. Raman Sharma, Advocate for respondents.

ORDER:
1. This appeal has been preferred against judgment of learned Single Judge, directing framing of policy for regularization in the light of judgment of the Honble Supreme Court in U.P. State Electricity Board v. Pooran Chandra Pandey (SC) 2007 (4) SCC 179.

2. We have perused the impugned judgment and heard learned counsel for the parties.

3. Learned counsel for the appellant points out that learned Single Judge has gone solely by judgment of the Honble Supreme Court in Pooran Chandra Pandey (supra), which has been overruled in Official Liquidator v. Daya Nand and others (2008) 10 SCC 1.

We find it to be so. Accordingly, without going into any further question, the impugned order is set aside and the matter is remitted back to learned Single Judge for fresh decision, in accordance with law.

4. The appeal is disposed of.

(ADARSH KUMAR GOEL)
JUDGE

( GURDEV SINGH )
JUDGE

MUKESH KUMAR and ANOTHERVsSTATE OF PUNJAB and OTHERS Civil Writ Petition 16606 of 2009

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB and HARYANA, CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision: November 04, 2009

Mukesh Kumar and Another .....PETITIONER(S)
VERSUS
State of Punjab and Others .....RESPONDENT(S)

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE AJAI LAMBA

PRESENT: -
S/shri R.K. Chopra, Senior Advocate, with Amit Chopra, Kapil Kakkar, Vivek Rattan, R.S. Manhas, R.K. Arora, Mahesh Gupta, P.S. Goraya, Tribhawan Singla, M.L. Sachdeva, V.K. Shukla, Jagbir Malik, Onkar Singh Batalvi and
Ms. Alka Chatrath, Advocates, for the petitioner(s).

AJAI LAMBA, J (Oral)
This shall dispose of a bunch of petitions, filed in challenge to similar orders, viz. CWP Nos.16606 of 2009, `Mukesh Kumar and Another vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16605 of 2009, `Kewal Singh vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16590 of 2009, `Narinder Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16748 of 2009, `Gurjit Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16749 of 2009, `Paramjit Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16750 of 2009, `Navtej Singh vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16751 of 2009, `Jagroop Singh vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16752 of 2009, `Sarabjit Singh and Another vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16753 of 2009, `Harpreet Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16754 of 2009, `Gurpreet Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16755 of 2009, `Sarabjit Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16756 of 2009, `Anu Sharma vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16757 of 2009, `Balbir Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16760 of 2009, `Jatinder Kumar vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16765 of 2009, `Rajni vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16766 of 2009, `Sukhpal Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16767 of 2009, `Gurbinder Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16776 of 2009, `Pooja Rani vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16789 of 2009, `Hardeep Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16793 of 2009, `Gurbhej Singh and Another vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16794 of 2009, `Raj Kumar vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16796 of 2009, `Jatinder Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16800 of 2009, `Ranjit Kaur and Others vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16801 of 2009, `Amandeep Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16802 of 2009, `Nirmal Singh vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16804 of 2009, `Shashi Kumar and Others vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16807 of 2009, `Poonam Bala Gupta vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16812 of 2009, `Baljit Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16813 of 2009, `Renu Bala vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16840 of 2009, `Archana Rani vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16842 of 2009, `Jaswant Kaur and Another vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16844 of 2009, `Khushvinder Singh vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16849 of 2009, `Rupinder Kaur Gill vs. State of Punjab and Others; 16854 of 2009, `Mahinder Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others; and 16616 of 2009, `Ramandeep Kaur Cheema vs. State of Punjab and Others. Learned counsel for the petitioners agree that similar issue was raised in Civil Writ Petition No.16683 of 2009, `Rashpinder Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others, decided on 3.11.2009. I have considered the contention of learned counsel. I find that the similar orders as challenged in the case of Rashpinder Kaur (supra) have been challenged in this petition. In the case of Rashpinder Kaur (supra), the following order had been passed:-

Facts in brief are that by virtue of an advertisement issued by the State of Punjab, Department of Education, 9998 posts of Teaching Fellows were advertised. In about 400 cases, the respondents prima faice found that the experience certificate(s)/documents appended with the Application Forms was/were bogus (forged and fabricated). So as to give an opportunity to such persons, an advertisement was given by the respondents to enable all such persons to appear before a Committee to establish that the certificate(s) infact was/were genuine. In all the cases that have flooded the Court, the respondents have passed orders cancelling the agreement of appointment, thereby removing the persons from service with immediate effect. While passing the orders, reference has been made only to the certificate(s) that purportedly was/were found to be forged/ fabricated. The writ petitions have been filed in challenge to the orders of removal on various grounds including that the petitioners have been allowed to serve for about a year whereafter the impugned action has been taken; the certificate(s) that had been termed as bogus (forged and fabricated) was/ were infact genuine as is evident from the documents appended with the writ petitions. It has been specifically pleaded that the documents placed on record with the writ petitions in support of genuineness of the certificate(s), were produced before the Committee. No notice of the documents has however been taken by the administrative authorities; every individual is vested with a right on issuance of a letter of appointment; the orders passed by the respondents are cyclostyled orders and do not deal with the individual case of the petitioners, as projected by them; reasoned and speaking orders have not been passed; and proper opportunity of hearing has not been given. In the petitions earlier filed on the grounds given above, the matters had been adjourned to 10.11.2009 after issuance of notice of motion. The matters that are being taken up today, have been shown in urgent list and are being disposed of in view of the stand taken by the learned counsel for the respondent-State. Learned counsel appearing for the respondents contends that the respondents, considering the facts and circumstances of the cases, have taken a decision to review/ reconsider the cases of all the persons who want to bring evidence/ material to show that the documents/ certificates submitted by the petitioners were genuine. In pursuance of this exercise, an advertisement has already been given in `The Tribune‟ and „Punjab Kesri‟ on 30.10.2009 and Punjabi daily `Ajit‟ dated 31.10.2009. The public notice makes it evident that all the persons who have been removed from service on the ground of relying on bogus (forged and fabricated) certificates, belonging to the areas (except District Gurdaspur) are required to appear in the Office of Bharat Scouts Guide, Near Law Department, Panjab University, Chandigarh at 10.00 A.M. The persons from District Gurdaspur are required to appear on 5.11.2009.

Learned counsel has further informed the Court that a Committee has been constituted which shall accept the representations/ documents to be submitted in support of claim of each person. While accepting the documents, a receipt duly signed by authorised signatory would be given for each of the documents. On considering claim of each person, after verification of the documents so submitted, a reasoned and speaking order would be passed. Learned counsel further states that on account of paucity of time, another public notice would be given by way of a corrigendum or otherwise, asking the removed persons to come present and project their case as detailed above. Learned counsel has assured the Court that speaking and reasoned orders would be passed in regard to each of the individual cases and the same shall be conveyed to the concerned persons. In view of the stand taken on behalf of the respondent-State, it transpires that the impugned orders are required to be reviewed/ reconsidered by the respondents. Under the circumstances, cause of action does not survive in so much as fresh decision vide reasoned and speaking orders, would be taken by the respondents after considering the individual claim of the petitioners/ candidates. In view of the above, the petitions are disposed of with direction to the respondents to complete the process as soon as possible, in the interest of administrative efficiency. Learned counsel for the petitioners contends that some such persons have not been relieved and continue to serve. If that be so, it is directed that the persons not relieved till date as a consequence of the orders of removal, would be allowed to continue to serve till orders are passed by the respondents on review/ reconsideration of the claims.

On consideration of facts collectively, it transpires that persons from areas other than District Gurdaspur, would be given an opportunity of presenting their case on 4th November, 2009 at 10.00 AM in the Office of Bharat Scouts Guide, near Law Department, Panjab University, Chandigarh, while the persons from District Gurdaspur can approach the Committee on 5th November, 2009. Another corrigendum/ public notice would also be given to enable any left out candidate whose documents have been found suspicious. The respondents as per their undertaking would pass speaking and reasoned orders after consideration of the documents submitted by the candidates. In view of the above, all these cases are disposed of in the same terms as Civil Writ Petition No.16683 of 2009, `Rashpinder Kaur vs. State of Punjab and Others, decided on 3.11.2009, portion whereof has been reproduced above. Copy of the order be placed on each file of the connected cases taken up today. Copy of the order be given under signatures of the Reader of this Bench.

(AJAI LAMBA)
JUDGE

MRS SATYA BAGGA and OTHERS Vs SUBHASH SINGH and OTHERS LPA 213 of 1999(O and M)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 03.11.2009

Mrs. Satya Bagga and others. -----Appellants
Vs.
Subhash Singh and Others. -----Respondents

CORAM:-
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ADARSH KUMAR GOEL
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE GURDEV SINGH

Present:-
Mr. L.M. Suri, Advocate for the appellants.
Mr. Gaurav Goyal, Advocate for respondent No.2.

ORDER:
1. This appeal has been preferred against judgment of learned Single Judge, determining compensation under the provisions of Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 at Rs.3,44,000/- with interest @ Rs.12% per annum from the date of filing of the claim petition till realization.

2. Om Prakash Bagga aged 53 years died in accident which took place on 4.9.1989 at 3-00 P.M. at Chandigarh while driving scooter No.CHM-8348 which was hit by truck No.CHW- 8046, owned by respondent No.2 Satish Kumar, which was being driven by Subhash Singh respondent No.1 and was insured with LPA No.213 of 1999 respondent No.3. The appellants are widow and sons of the deceased. They filed application for compensation before the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal, Chandigarh, claiming
compensation of Rs.15 lacs. The deceased was employed as Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, Panjab University, Chandigarh and was earning Rs.6505/- per month.

The owner and driver admitted the accident but stated that the same did not take place due to the negligence of the driver of the
truck. Main issue between the parties was whether there was negligence of the truck driver and the quantum of compensation due. The Tribunal held that the accident was on account of rash
and negligent driving of the driver of the truck. Dependency of the
claimants was assessed at Rs.4,000/- per month. Applying the
multiplier of 7, compensation was worked out at Rs.3,36,000/-.

However, it was held that liability of the Insurance Company was
only to the extent of Rs.1,50,000/- in view of policy Ex.R-1.

3. On appeal to this Court, learned Single Judge added a sum of Rs.8,000/- to the compensation already awarded towards consortium and funeral expenses and also accepted the appeal filed by the owner, restricting the liability of the Insurance Company to Rs.1,50,000/- on the ground that w.e.f. 1.7.1989 new
Act had come into force and under the amended provisions, liability of the Insurance Company was unlimited. The Insurance
Company, the owner and the driver have not challenged the
judgment of learned Single Judge. Only claimants have filed this
appeal.

4. Only contention raised on behalf of the appellants is that when age of deceased was 53, multiplier of 11 was required to be applied in view of judgment of the Honble Supreme Court in Sarla Verma and others v. Delhi Transport Corporation and
another 2009(6) SCC 121 (para 21).

5 Learned counsel for respondent No.2 has not been able to rebut this submission. None appears for the Insurance Company and the driver.

6. In view of judgment of the Honble Supreme Court in Sarla Verma (supra), we are of the view that the contention raised on behalf of the appellants has to prevail.

7. Accordingly, this appeal is allowed and compensation awarded is increased, to be calculated by applying multiplier of

11. The appellants will be entitled interest @ 9% per annum on
the enhanced amount of compensation from the date of application, to the date of payment, after adjusting the amount
paid.

(ADARSH KUMAR GOEL)
JUDGE

( GURDEV SINGH )
JUDGE

RAMONA SANADIVsPANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANOTHER CWP 10520 of 2009

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh.

Date of decision. 13.10.2009

Ramona Sanadi
Vs.
Panjab University and another.

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE PERMOD KOHLI

Present:
None for the petitioner.
Mr.Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for the respondents.

PERMOD KOHLI, J. (Oral):
Mr.Gupta has informed the Court that there is one vacancy
available with the University in ME (Electronics and Communication).

It is also not in dispute that the candidates having lower merit than the petitioner have been admitted to the said course.

In view of the above, the petitioner is entitled to be admitted to the course in question on the basis of higher merit.

This petition is, accordingly, disposed of with a direction to respondent No.1-University to admit the petitioner forth with to the ME (Electronics and Communication) on the basis of her merit.

(PERMOD KOHLI)
JUDGE

DR ASHOK KUMAR AGGARWALVsSMT ANJU RAJE

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

FAO No.158-M of 2003

Date of decision: 23.09.2009

Dr.Ashok Kumar Aggarwal ..Appellant
Versus
Smt.Anju Raje ...Respondent

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE VINOD K. SHARMA

Present:-
Mr.Bhoop Singh, Advocate, for the appellant.
Mr.Ravinder Rana. Advocate, for the respondent.

1. Whether Reporters of Local Newspapers may be allowed to see the judgment?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in Digest?

VINOD K. SHARMA,J.
This appeal by the husband is directed against the judgment and decree dated 9.4.2003 passed by the learned Additional District Judge, Chandigarh dismissing the petition filed by the appellant under section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (for short the Act) for dissolution of
marriage.

The appellant sought a decree of divorce on the ground of cruelty and adultery on the pleadings that the parties were married on 10.6.1994 at Lucknow according to Hindu rites and ceremonies. After the marriage, the parties lived together and cohabited as husband and wife at Pilani (Rajasthan), Guwahati (Assam) and Chandigarh. No child was born out of this wed-lock. The appellant claimed that he is an intellectual and belonged to cream scientific society of the country. Due to indefinite attitude of the respondent, the appellant could not enjoy his happy married life. The respondent was said to be lethargic type of woman who did not take interest in the household affairs and personal comforts of the appellant.

She was said to be having her own male friends in her circle. At the time of marriage she was working as a Post Graduate Teacher in Northern East Railway Senior Secondary School, Gorakhpur. Despite the assurance given to the appellant that she will leave her job as she got another job as Post Graduate Teacher at Birla Balika Vidyapeeth, Pillani, she kept accommodation provided to her for a period of 21 months at Gorakhpur just to meet her male friends periodically. It was on account of persuasion of the appellant that she resigned her job in the month of January, 1995 but she retained Govt. Accommodation till the month of March,1996.

In view of the behaviour of the respondent, the appellant left his job at Pilani and joined the institution of Advance Study in Science and
Technology as Professor and Head of the Mathematical Science Division at Guwahati. At Pilani the appellant was working as Association Professor in Birla Institute of Technology. He remained in Guwahati from 2.1.1996 to 12.5.1998 and during this period the respondent stayed with the appellant for about half of the time. She was said to be having quarreling habits and continued creating atmosphere for annoyance of the appellant. The appellant joined Punjab University, Chandigarh as Professor of Mathematics on 14.5.1998 and the respondent remained with him at Chandigarh from June, 1998 to 4.11.1998. On 9.11.1998 the respondent left her matrimonial home and started living with her parents at Fatehgarh (UP).

During the period the respondent stayed with the appellant he found that
the respondent had irregular menstruation period and on medical check up it was discovered that the respondent had tilted uterus which caused
blockage of one side of Fallopian tube. All this was to avoid conception.

In the month of March, 1995 she conceived but got aborted in the month of May, 1995.

It was the case set up by the appellant that when the parties were residing at Guwahati they were advised by the doctor to be careful regarding direct physical sexual contact it being risky as the respondent had some internal infection problem. On account of this, the appellant started using contraceptives at the time of intercourse. On 24.11.1998 the appellant received a telephone call from the respondent stating that she had become pregnant. The appellant asked her the name of the person from whom she conceived pregnancy. It was the case of the appellant that the respondent conceived pregnancy with physical contact with another person from her male friendly circle. The respondent, however, refused to disclose the secret and she got aborted in the month of January, 1999. The respondent was asked by the appellant to keep a piece of flesh of child for DNA test for expert opinion regarding the character of the respondent. It was the case of the appellant that the respondent developed extra marital relations with other persons from her male friendly circle. On 9.3.1999 the respondent came to the house of the appellant at Chandigarh where she entered the house by breaking open the lock, and removed medical papers concerning her.

On the pleadings referred to above the appellant claimed that he was entitled to a decree of divorce on the ground of cruelty and adultery.

The petition was contested by the respondent wherein a plea was taken that the appellant is in the habit of levelling false allegations. She denied that she was lethargic type of lady or that she used to neglect the appellant. She also denied having developed sexual relationship with ther persons. She also denied the allegations that she conceived due to physical contact with any other person. It was pleaded that the appellant suffered from some sort of inferiority complex. She also denied that she has any male friendly circle. The allegations that she used to go to Gorakhpur to meet her male friends was also denied. She also denied that the appellant joined job at Guwahati due to the behaviour of the respondent. Allegations were said to be false to get rid of the respondent. The respondent pleaded that she got aborted on the asking of the appellant. It was also the case of the respondent that in order to prove her chastity, loyalty and honesty towards the appellant she preserved the foetus for DNA test which was deposited in the court for sending the same for DNA test. She also denied the allegations that she had broken up the lock at Chandigarh on 9.3.1997. It was also the case of the respondent that the appellant was a man of suspicious mind.

The appellant was divorcee at the time of marriage and this fact was within the knowledge of the respondent. Few years prior to the date of marriage the appellant had filed a petition for divorce against his previous wife Smt.Suman daughter of Shri J.P.Gupta levelling similar type of allegations.

He levelled serious allegations regarding her character and ultimately decree of divorce was passed by mutual consent. She also denied having subjected the appellant to cruelty.

In the replication averments made in the petition were reiterated whereas averments made in the written statement were denied.

On the pleadings of the parties the following issues were framed by the learned Matrimonial Court:-

1. Whether the marriage between the parties is liable to be dissolved by a decree of divorce on the grounds mentioned in the petition as alleged? OPA

2. Relief.

In the evidence led, the appellant reiterated the averments made in the petition. Learned matrimonial court took note of the conduct of the
appellant with regard to his previous marriage and recorded a finding that the appellant was unable to tell the name of the person with whom the respondent developed sexual relationship. Learned matrimonial court found that suspicion arose in the mind of the appellant on the basis of calculation of menstruation period and fertility period of females. The appellant had not seen any person in the company of his wife nor he was aware of the name of such person with whom she developed sexual relationship, but in spite of that he characterized his wife as characterless. Learned matrimonial court felt that opinion regarding fertility period and calculation on the basis of menstruation period can not always be correct. Learned matrimonial court further found that suspicion in the mind of the husband regarding character of his wife could not be removed by medical test or DNA test, as these results also are not always found to be cent per cent correct. Learned matrimonial court further held that it was for the appellant to have mentioned in clear words the name of person concerned, with whom she developed sexual relationship. Learned matrimonial court further found that except for his own statement no other person appeared in the witness box to corroborate the statement of the appellant. Learned matrimonial court further found that PGI treatment Ex.P.1, on which reliance was placed by the appellant could not lead to the conclusion that the appellant was not capable to have sexual intercourse. The learned matrimonial court also held that his bald statement that he did not have sexual intercourse with his wife after the month of August, 1998 could not be believed.

Learned matrimonial court held that as per the stand of the respondent she had kept the Govt. Accommodation at Gorakhpur because her sister was also teacher and being ill, she used to reside in that accommodation.

Learned matrimonial court also found that the letter Ex.PF written by B.Kumar before settlement of marriage could not be treated to be an
undertaking on the part of the respondent, as the said letter was neither
written by the respondent, nor by her father or any other member of her
family. Learned matrimonial court held that the respondent committed no
fault in not submitting her resignation from the post of teacher at Gorakhpur as she was to keep in her mind her future. Learned matrimonial court also held that after remaining in the company of appellant for few months she might have felt that it might not be possible for her to live with her husband for whole of life. Learned matrimonial court held that merely because the respondent did not resign and kept accommodation could not lead to a conclusion that the accommodation was kept to meet and have sexual relations with her male friends.

Learned matrimonial court also felt that it was not proper for the appellant to have levelled such serious allegations without verification.

The suspicion in the mind of the appellant was based on calculation of fertility period of a woman. The version of the appellant was held to be not believable.

Learned matrimonial court further held that the appellant had made these type of serious allegations, even against his first wife. The ground of adultery was rejected.

It is pertinent to mention here, that as per requirement of law it was incumbent upon the appellant to have impleaded the alleged adulterer
as party, in the absence whereof the plea of adultery can not be accepted.

Furthermore, the requirement of provisions of the Act is that spouse should have sexual intercourse with other person, but no such pleadings were made in the petition but only a presumption was sought to be drawn by the appellant on the basis of his calculation.

The plea of cruelty stood rejected by the learned matrimonial court by holding that it was not alleged by the appellant, that he was ever physically abused or humiliated by the respondent in the presence of other relatives and family members. The stand of the appellant that the act of the respondent in getting aborted twice without his consent amounted to cruelty, on the plea that she was not willing to have birth to a child was not accepted as the appellant himself, pleaded that in medical check up it was discovered that the respondent had tilted uterus which caused blockage of one side of fallopian tube, so it is difficult to conceive, but no medical record was produced in proof thereof.

The plea that medical record was stolen by the respondent or that she entered the house of the appellant at Chandigarh after breaking open the lock was also not believed as the respondent had taken a specific stand that she had not broken the lock.

Learned matrimonial court also found that the plea of the appellant that he had gone to Kurukshetra on the said date could not be accepted in he absence of documentary evidence regarding his stay at Guest House or Rest House. Learned matrimonial court also held that RW 2 brother of the respondent deposed that they reached Chandigarh, and found the house of the appellant to be locked. On inquiry it was relvealed that he had gone somewhere. No suggestion was put to him that the lock was broken by them in the absence of the appellant. Learned matrimonial court found that even if this fact for the sake of argument was accepted still it was not so serious, as respondent being legally wedded wife of the
appellant had gone to her matrimonial home.

Learned matrimonial court also found that she had not gone there to take away medical record, as admittedly she stayed there for 2-3 days. The plea that she had come to take away medical record was not believed.

Learned matrimonial court also found that the appellant had not raised any objection to her stay in Chandigarh, and no report was made to the police regarding stealing of the medical record. Learned matrimonial court felt that the allegations about stealing medical record could also not
be believed.

Learned matrimonial court also held that the version of the appellant stood falsified as the respondent had become pregnant twice during the period she remained in matrimonial home. Learned matrimonial court recorded a positive finding that it could not be believed that the intention of the respondent was not to give birth to the child as alleged.

Learned matrimonial court found that it was the appellant who compelled
her to get abortion on account of his suspicion, that she got pregnant from some other person. Learned matrimonial court held that the appellant failed to prove that abortion in the month of 1995 was got effected only by the respondent as it was a miscarriage, and not abortion.

The plea of the appellant that he was kept in dark by the respondent in not submitting the resignation from the Government post at Gorakhpur in spite of assurance was held to be not a ground for divorce, as no such assurance was given by the respondent, her parents or brother.

Learned matrimonial court felt that the husband cannot legally compel the wife to resign government job and the plea of cruelty to seek divorce was also rejected and petition was ordered to be dismissed.

Mr.Bhoop Singh, learned counsel appearing on behalf of the appellant vehemently contended that the judgment and decree passed by the learned matrimonial court cannot be sustained in view of the proved facts
which constitute cruelty i.e.:

(i) that in spite of assurance given before the marriage the respondent did not leave the job at Gorakhpur and even after submitting resignation she withdrew it without the consent of the appellant.

This plea of the learned counsel deserves to be noticed to be rejected. It was not disputed that after the marriage even without submitting the resignation the respondent joined matrimonial home and stayed with him. The plea of the appellant that house was kept by her to meet her male friends could not be proved by leading any cogent evidence whereas the reason for retaining the house were duly explained by the respondent/wife.

(ii) That the respondent conceived in the month of May, 1995 but she got aborted without the consent of the appellant and therefore, this act amounted to cruelty. This allegation again based on the oral evidence of the appellant, whereas the respondent had taken a specific stand that it
was a case of miscarriage.

This allegation again cannot amount to cruelty which could entitle the appellant to a decree of divorce. Learned matrimonial court rightly rejected this ground.

(iii) That the learned matrimonial court failed to notice that it was proved fact that on 4.11.1998 a call was received from the respondent about her pregnancy which certainly caused cruelty as the child was not conceived from the loins of the appellant.

The contention of the learned counsel was that in spite of specific instructions that foetus should be retained for DNA test she did not immediately send the foetus but kept it by mixing certain chemical so that
no test could be conducted, the act amounted to mental cruelty.

This plea again is baseless. Learned matrimonial court has rightly come to the conclusion that mere suspicion of the husband cannot be a proof of adultery, especially when the appellant had not seen the respondent in the company of any male member, nor he could name anyone.

Mr. Bhoop Singh, learned counsel also contended that in the written statement, a false plea was taken by the respondent that she got aborted child, on the asking of the appellant which was factually incorrect.

The contention of the learned counsel was that, this false averment constituted cruelty.

This plea again is totally misconceived. The assertion in the written statement was supported by her in the evidence. Mere bald statement of the appellant that he never asked her to get aborted, could not be taken to be gospel truth as contended.

Lastly, Learned counsel appearing on behalf of the appellant by placing reliance on the judgment of Hon'ble Supreme Court in the case of Vijaykumar Ramchandra Bhate Vs. Neela Vijaykumar Bhate 2003 (1) Apex Court Judgments 677 contended that mental cruelty does not
depend upon numerical count of such incidents or only on the continuous
course of such conduct. It goes by the intensity, gravity and stigmatic
impact of it when meted out even once and the deleterious effect of it on the mental attitude necessary for maintaining a conducive matrimonial home.

The contention of the learned counsel was that if the averments were taken cumulatively, and the fact of not retaining the foetus for DNA test singly it amounted, to such an act which constituted cruelty. It was also the contention of the learned counsel that the respondent was a total liar
and the stand taken in the written statement, and evidence led was of such a nature, which caused mental cruelty to the appellant.

This contention again deserves to be noticed to be rejected.

Foetus, in fact, was retained by the wife, it was also brought to Chandigarh. Merely because examination of foetus was not possible could not lead to a conclusion that the plea of the appellant stood proved or that the respondent was a liar.

Hon'ble Supreme court in the case of Smt.Kamti Devi and another Vs. Poshi Ram, AIR 2001 Supreme Court 2226, has been pleased to lay down as under:-

4.The marriage between appellant Kamti Devi and respondent Poshi Ram was solemnised in the year 1975. For almost fifteen years thereafter Kamti Devi remained childless and on 4.9.1989 she gave birth to a male child (his name is Roshan Lal). The long period in between was marked by internecine legal battles in which the spouses engaged as against each other. Soon after the birth of the child it was sought to be recorded in the Register under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act. Then the husband filed a civil suit for a decree declaring that he is not the father of the child, as he had no access to the appellant
Kamti Devi during the period when the child would have been begotten.

10. But Section 112 itself provides an outlet to the party who wants to escape from the rigour of that conclusiveness.

The said outlet is, if it can be shown that the parties had no access to each other at the time when the child could have been begotten the presumption could be rebutted. In other words, the party who wants to dislodge the conclusiveness has the burden to show a negative, not merely that he did not have the opportunity to approach his wife but that she too did not have the opportunity of approaching him during the relevant time. Normally, the rule of evidence in other instances is that the burden is on the party who asserts the positive, but in this instance the
burden is cast on the party who pleads the negative. The raison d'etre is the legislative concern against illegitimatizing a child. It is a sublime public policy that children should not suffer social disability on account of
the laches or lapses of parents.

11. We may remember that Section 112 of the Evidence Act was enacted at a time when the modern scientific advancements with Dioxy Nucleic Acid (DNA) as well as Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) tests were not even in contemplation of the legislature. The result of a genuine DNA test is said to be scientifically accurate. But even that is not enough to escape from the conclusiveness of Section 112 of the Act, e.g. if a husband and wife were living together during the time of conception but the DNA test revealed that the child was not born to the husband, the
conclusiveness in law would remain unrebuttable. This may look hard from the point of view of the husband who would be compelled to bear the fatherhood of a child of which he may be innocent. But even in such a case the law leans in favour of the innocent child from being bastardized if his mother and her spouse were living together during the
time of conception. Hence the question regarding the degree of proof of non-access for rebutting the conclusiveness must be answered in the light of what is meant by access or non-access as delineated above.

There can be no dispute that parties to the marriage had access to each other. Mere supression of the appellant in calculation of menstrual period of woman, cannot be accepted as proof of adultery or mental cruelty.

In view of the law laid down by Hon'ble Supreme Court in the case of Smt.Kamti Devi and another Vs. Poshi Ram (supra) the stand of the
appellant deserves to be rejected, as presumption is to be drawn against the appellant in view of Section 112 of the Evidence Act.

For the reasons stated above, finding no merit in this appeal it is ordered to be dismissed but with no order as to costs.

(Vinod K.Sharma)
Judge

KRITIKA GARGVsPANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh.

CWP No.11569 of 2009

Date of decision: 16.09.2009

Kritika Garg ... Petitioner
Vs.
Panjab University, Chandigarh. ... Respondent

Present:
Mr.Rajesh Gupta, Advocate.
Mr.Anupam Gupta, Advocate.

CORAM:
HON'BLR MR. JUSTICE PERMOD KOHLI

PERMOD KOHLI, J. (Oral):
Pursuant to the interim order dated 4.8.2009, the petitioner was permitted to participate in the third counselling on 17.08.2009 and on the
basis of the merit and the counselling so held, the petitioner has been
admitted provisionally to the BE Course (Food Technology). Since the
petitioner has been found to be in merit on the strength of re-evaluation of the result and admitted to the course, she is entitled to the relief prayed for.

Thus, the admission of the petitioner shall stand regularised.

This petition is accordingly disposed of.

(PERMOD KOHLI)
JUDGE

BINNY SHAMAVsPANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND ANOTHER

CWP No.10455 of 2009

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh.

Date of decision:09.09.2009

Binny Sharma .. Petitioners
Vs.
Panjab University, Chandigarh and another .. Respondents

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE PERMOD KOHLI

Present:
Mr.IS Sidhu, Advocate,for the petitioner.
Mr.Deepak Sibal, Advocate, for respondent No.1.
Mr.Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for respondent No.2.

PERMOD KOHLI, J. (Oral):
I have heard the learned counsel for the parties at length.

Respondent No.1 issued Brochure/Prospectus for holding Common Entrance Test, 2009. The petitioner is ten plus two and claims to be eligible to appear in the Common Entrance Test. She applied for the same within the prescribed time. She was allotted Roll Numbers 301813 for Common Entrance Test, 2009. She has been placed at Rank No.719 in the General Category (Single Girl Child) which was notified by the respondent No.1 in the Prospectus. The petitioner sought admission to MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BHMS Courses.

After the Common Entrance Test, the petitioner filled up the admission form as per the requirement of the Prospectus and again mentioned in her application that she is seeking consideration against the Single Girl Child category. The respondents notified the dates for counselling for the aforesaid courses which was scheduled to be held from 15.07.2009 to 17.07.2009. It is stated that the petitioner appeared for counselling, it was found that there was no separate category for Single Girl Child.

The petitioner's father made a representation to the Vice Chancellor of the Panjab University seeking information regarding the Single Girl Child category for which the petitioner claims to have applied. Since no reply was received by the petitioner, she has filed this petition seeking a direction to consider her candidature for admission to the medical courses mentioned above in the category of Single Girl Child “General” on the basis of her merit in the Common Entrance Test.

The claim of the petitioner has been denied by respondent No.1 in its reply. It is stated that though in the year 2008, a decision was taken by the respondent-University for creating an additional seat
for a Single Girl Child category, but on 16.07.2008 it was clarified that admission to the Session 2008-2009 for additional seat for Single Girl Child shall not be applicable to admission falling under Regulatory agencies such as MCI, DCI and NCTE. This decision was conveyed to all the affiliated colleges. Respondent No.1 has placed on record a communication dated 13.06.2008 (Annexure R-1/1 addressed to the Principals of all the Colleges, affiliated to Panjab University. The relevant extract of the letter aforesaid for the purpose of this petition is, reproduced below:-

For Girl Child:

1. An additional seat for the single girl child for admission to a given course in the Panjab University provided she is otherwise eligible
from all angles. The reservation in favour of the girl child whether A SINGLE GIRL OR ONE AMONGST TWO OR EVEN MORE WITH
NO MALE CHILD IS EXTENDED TO ONE OF THE GIRLS OF A COUPLE.

The aforesaid communication was followed by another circular dated 16.07.2008 again addressed to all the affiliated colleges and other authorities with the following clarification:-

Subject:

i) Concessions to the wards of Kashmiri Displaced Persons (2008-2009).

ii) Additional Seat for Single Girl Child and Cancer, Aids Patient for the Session 2008-2009.

Sir/Madam,
I am desired by the Vice-Chancellor to inform you that the concession given vide this office circular No.Misc./A-6/6377-6627 dated 13.6.2008 to the above categories is not applicable to the students falling under regulatory agencies such as MCI, DCI, NCTE.

Yours faithfully,
Sd/-
DA: As above. Deputy Registrar (Colleges)
for Registrar

Even for the academic session 2009-2010, another circular dated 25.06.2009 has been issued on the same subject with the following subject:-

Additional Seat for Girl Child and Cancer Aids Patient:

For Girl Child:

1. An additional seat for the single girl child for admission to a given course in the Panjab University provided she is otherwise eligible
from all angles. The reservation in favour of the girl child whether A SINGLE GIRL OR ONE AMONGST TWO OR EVEN MORE WITH
NO MALE CHILD IS EXTENDED TO ONE OF THE GIRLS OF A COUPLE.

A copy of an affidavit on a stamp paper worth 20/- duly attested by Ist Class Magistrate, to be obtained from the parents of the girl child is enclosed.

For Cancer and Aids Patient:

The students will submit a certificate with proof from the National Medical Institute like PGI, AIIMS etc.

3. The above concession is not applicable to the students falling under regulatory agencies such as MCI, DCI and NCTE.

Yours faithfully,
Sd/-
DA: As above. Deputy Director (Colleges)
For Registrar

In the Prospectus issued by the respondent University for the Common Entrance Test, 2009, the eligibility conditions are prescribed in Part-A. As far the admission to respondent No.2 College is concerned, the detail of the seats has been provided under Part (A) (1) of the Prospectus which is as under:-

(1) MBBS in Govt. Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32/A, Chandigarh.

Admission to 39 seats for MBBS (Govt. Medical College, Sector 32-A, Chandigarh) shall be strictly on merit as determined in the CET Examination. For this course 14% seats will be reserved for Scheduled Caste candidates as per the order of the Apex Court and 3% seats for the candidates suffering from Locomotory Disabilities of Lower Limbs between 50% to 70% out of the total intake of 50 seats. 1 seat for Central Pool to be filled through the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi. 3 seats for NRI candidates and 7 seats for All India Pool to be filled by the Directorate General of Health Services, New Delhi through entrance examination conducted by the CBSE.

Admission to NRI seats shall be made on merit determined on the basis of marks obtained by the candidate in qualifying examinations of Board of Education of the State Concerned.

Equivalence/eligibility o the candidates will be determined by the Panjab University, Chandigarh, who will issue equivalence/eligibility certificate. NRI candidates are not required to appear in CET.

The Prospectus also contains details of the reservation under various categories under the general instructions which are as under:-

4. General Instructions for filling of seats against reserved categories:

4.1 Seats: Open and Reserved.

The number of seats in each course offered in the Teaching Departments, as announced in the Admission Notice/s, shall be strictly adhered to, except for such minor adjustment as may be
necessary on account of rounding of fractions to accommodate reservations, as given below:-

(A) Generally 60.5% of the seats in each course shall be treated as belonging to the Open Category.

(B) 39.5% seats shall be treated as belonging to Reserved Category, as per details given below:-

(i) 15% for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Castes.

(ii) 7.5% for candidates belonging to the Scheduled Tribes.

(iii) 3% for Physically Handicapped Candidates.

(iv) 5% on the basis of achievement in Sports (as per guidelines)

(v) 5% for Defence Personnel, Paramilitary Personnel etc.

The petitioner also relied upon the Prospectus wherein Codes for various reservation has been provided which are as under:-

Category:

Category Code Category Code General GN Wards of Military/Paramilitary Personnel who died in action D1 Scheduled Caste SC Wards of Military/Paramilitary Personnel incapacitated while in service D2 Scheduled Tribe ST Wards of Military/Paramilitary
Personnel Ex-Serviceman D3 Sports Person SP Defence Personnel incapacitated while in service.

D4 Terrorist Victims TV Wards of Serving Defence Personnel D5 Freedom Fighter FF Ex-Serviceman D6 Physically Handicapped PH Serving Defence Personnel D7
Kashmiri Migrants KM Single Girl Child SGC There is special note appended for candidates seeking admission to above mentioned medical courses which reads as under:-

SUBMISSION OF APPLICATINS:

a) ...........
b) ...........
c) ...........
d) Candidates seeking admission to MBBS, BDS, BAMS and BHMS will have to apply separately by the last date as given in Part C:

Guidelines for Admission of this prospectus.

They are advised to contact Director Principal, Govt. Medical College and Hospital, Sector 32, Chandigarh, for further information.

The Prospectus also contains special chapter dealing with the Centralised Counselling Process and Procedure for admission to
Medical courses. Clause 3 of the aforesaid chapter deals with the
distribution of seats for the courses aforesaid, which is reproduced
below:-

3.Distribution of Seats: The distribution of seats for MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BHMS for various categories is as under :-

a) MBBS Courses at Govt. Medical College, Chandigarh.

Total seats 50 UT Pool 30 UT Pool SC 07 UT Pool Physically Handicapped 02 NRI
03 All India Quota 07 Central Pool 01

b) BDS Courses at Dr.Harvansh Singh Judge Institute of Dental
Sciences, Chandigarh.

Total Seats 100 Foreign National/PIO/NRI/ NRI Sponsored / Industry sponsored 15
General 64 SC (15%) 13 ST (75%) 06 Reserved for candidates from Hoshiarpur District preferably of Judge (Jaj) Community. 02

Subject to approval of Dental Council of India and Govt. of India, New
Delhi.

c) BAMS Course at Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College, Chandigarh, (Final seats to be notified at the time of Counselling).

Total Seats 50 General 32 SC 08 Physically Handicapped 01 NRI 07 Central Pool 02
Counselling/admission will be subject to the approval from Govt. of
India on the recommendations of Central Council of Indian Medicine, New Delhi.

d) BHMS Course at Homeopathic Medical College, Chandigarh.

Total Seats 50 General 31 SC 08 Physically Handicapped 01 NRI 08 Central Pool 02
From the aforesaid clause of the Prospectus, it appears that for Medical Courses there is no reservation for “Single Girl Child”.

Learned counsel appearing for the petitioner has heavily relied upon the codes notified for various categories referred to above.

Those categories are for courses other than the Medical Courses for which a separate section has been incorporated. Appendix V with the Prospectus, in fact, deals with the various courses at the Graduation level where there is reservation for Single Girl Child category. As a matter of fact, Clause “D” deals with MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BHMS courses, it is specifically mentioned therein that for admission to these courses separate information is provided in the Prospectus and Clause 3 of the Chapter/Section dealing with admission to these courses give details of various categories for which reservation is made and it is crystal clear from para 3 that no reservation has been provided for Single Girl Child category for any of these courses.

One thing, at least, is clear from the Prospectus that for Single Girl Child category, an additional seat is to be created. In so far as admission to MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BHMS courses are concerned,
these courses are regulated by Central Legislation. Under Section 10A of the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956, no candidates can be
admitted beyond the sanctioned intake capacity of any college/institution. Relevant extract of Section 10-A is as under:-

10A. Permission for establishment of new medical college, new course of study:-

(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Act or any other law for the time being in force:-

(a) No person shall establish a medical college; or

(b) no medical college shall-

(i) open a new or higher course of study or training (including a postgraduate course of study or training) which would enable a student of such course or training to qualify himself for the award of any recognised medical qualification; or

(ii) increase its admission capacity in any course of study or training (including a post graduate course of study or training), except with the previous permission of the Central Government obtained in accordance with the provisions of this section.

Explanation: 1:- For the purpose of this section, “person” includes any University or a trust but does not include the Central Government.

Explanation: 2- For the purpose of this section, “Admission capacity”, in relation to any course of study or training (including postgraduate course of study or training) in a medical college, means the maximum number of students that may be fixed by the Council from time to time for being admitted to such course or training.

The claim of the petitioner for admission to MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BHMS Course against the category of Single Girl Child is not established from the facts on record. From the separate Chapter meant for MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BHMS Course, it is
abundantly clear that no reservation is provided for Single Girl Child
category. In view of the provisions of the MCI Act, no student can be
admitted in addition to the intake capacity of any college as approved by the MCI. Similar provisions are also made in other statutes. The circular dated 16.07.2008 (Annexure R-1/2) and 25.06.2009 (Annexure R-1/3) issued for the purposes of admissions also clearly indicate that the benefit of Single Girl Child category is not available for the courses which are regulated by the Regulatory Agencies like the MCI, DCI and NCTE.

In view of the above clear factual and legal position, there is no merit in the present petition and the same is hereby dismissed with no order as to costs.

(PERMOD KOHLI)
JUEGE

DR B B GOYAL READER PUNJAB UNIVERSITY Vs R C SOBTI AND ANOTHER

In the High Court for the States of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh

COCP No. 620 of 2008(O and M)

Date of decision: September 4, 2009

Dr. B.B.Goyal, Reader, Punjab University ..Petitioner
Versus
R.C.Sobti and another ..Respondent

Coram:
Honble Mr. Justice Rakesh Kumar Garg

Present:
Mr. Ramesh Sandhir, Advocate for the petitioner
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate for the respondents

Rakesh Kumar Garg, J.(Oral)
Learned counsel for the petitioner wishes to withdraw the present petition with liberty to the petitioner to seek an appropriate remedy in accordance with law against the decision of the Senate dated 11.6.2009 endorsed vide endorsement dated 26.6.2009.

With the aforesaid liberty, this petition is ordered to be dismissed as withdrawn.

Rule discharged.

(RAKESH KUMAR GARG)
JUDGE

PUNJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANOTHER Vs BALWINDER KAUR

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Civil Revision No.5005 of 2009 (O and M)

Date of Decision : 02.09.2009

Punjab University and another .....Petitioners
versus
Balwinder Kaur .....Respondent

CORAM :
HONBLE MR.JUSTICE SURYA KANT.

Present :
Mr.Vijay K.Jindal, Advocate, for the petitioners.

1. Whether Reporters of Local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?

2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?

3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

ORDER
Surya Kant, J. (Oral)
This revision petition is directed by the Punjabi University, Patiala against the order dated 25.5.2009 passed by the Civil Judge (Junior
Division), Patiala, whereby the respondent-plaintiff has been permitted to amend her plaint and challenge the order dated 10.2.1984 whereby the post occupied by her was declared vacant.

The amendment is being impugned by the petitioners, primarily on the plea that any challenge to the order dated 10.2.1984 at this belated stage is hopelessly time barred. It is pointed out that the suit was filed by the respondent-plaintiff on 12.12.2006.

There can indeed be no doubt that no amendment of the plaint can be allowed to take a plea, which on the face of it, is barred by limitation, as held by the Honble Supreme Court in Ashutosh
Chaturvedi versus Prano Devi @ Parani Devi and others, AIR 2008 (SC) 2171 and Shiv Gopal Sah @ Shiv Gopal Sahu versus Sita Ram Saraugi and others, AIR 2007 (SC) 1478, and recently this Court in Civil Revision No.1010 of 2008 (Kamal Sikka versus The Headmaster, S.R.T.D.A.V. Public School, Bilga), decided on 16.3.2009. However, the distinction sought to be drawn by respondent-plaintiff is that the order dated 10.2.1984 has been disclosed or conveyed to her only after filing of the suit. In other words, her plea is that the limitation would start running from the date of her knowledge.

The petitioner-University, on the other hand, submits that the order dated 10.2.1984 was very much in the knowledge of the respondentplaintiff.

Having regard to the rival contentions, I am of the considered view that the impugned order dated 25.5.2009 permitting the respondentplaintiff to amend the plaint does not warrant any interference by this Court in exercise of its revisional jurisdiction, though it can not be construed to mean as if the objection raised by the respondent-plaintiff that the claim is barred by limitation, has been waived off. The trial Court shall frame an issue as to whether the claim of the respondent-plaintiff is within limitation or not and return a finding on that issue. The petitioner University shall be at liberty to invoke appropriate remedy, if so required.

This revision petition stands disposed of accordingly.

(SURYA KANT)
JUDGE

DR R K MANN Vs THE PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and OTHERS

RENU GUPTA AND OTHERS Vs VICE CHANCELLOR PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.W.P. No.11436 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION: JULY 31, 2009

Renu Gupta and others .....PETITIONERS
Versus
Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh and another
....RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HONBLE MR.JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL

Present:
Mr.Vinod Gupta, Advocate, for the petitioners.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL, J. (Oral)
Counsel for the petitioners wants to withdraw this petition with liberty to challenge the order in accordance with law in case the petitioners
are again not given the contract employment and if they are replaced by other contract appointees.

Dismissed as withdrawn with the aforesaid liberty.

(SATISH KUMAR MITTAL)
JUDGE

J S RATHORE Vs PROF S S BARI and ANR

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB AND
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

COCP No.837 of 2009 (O and M)

Date of decision: August 26, 2009.

J.S. Rathore ...Petitioner(s)
v.
Prof. S.S. Bari and Anr. ...Respondent(s)

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAKESH KUMAR GARG

Present:
Petitioner in person.

Shri Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for the respondents.

ORDER
Rakesh Kumar Garg, J. (Oral):
The grievance of the petitioner in this case is that the directions dated 26.11.2008 passed in CWP No.964 of 2005 have not been complied with by the respondents.

In reply to the show cause notice issued by this Court, affidavit of Prof. S.S. Bari, Registrar, Panjab University, Chandigarh has been filed.

Along with this affidavit, the orders dated 24.8.2009 (Annexure R-1) and 25.8.2009 (Annexure R-2) and a photocopy of the cheque amounting to Rs.6,26,560/- drawn in the name of the petitioner have been placed on record.

In the reply, it has been submitted that in compliance of the orders dated 26.11.2008, the order Annexure R-1 was passed wherein it has been ordered to pay to the petitioner the subsistence allowance for the period with effect from 31.12.2004 till date and that the University has decided to move an application for extension of time for initiation of regular disciplinary inquiry against the petitioner before this Court and meanwhile reinstatement of the petitioner has been ordered subject to the initiation of regular disciplinary inquiry and subject to outcome of such inquiry against him and further that in case the petitioner is exonerated in the inquiry, the balance 25% of his salary will be paid to him but in case he is found guilty, the question of payment or non-payment of this balance amount shall be
decided by the competent authority.

In view of the aforesaid reply filed by the respondents, I am of the view that the substantial compliance of this Courts order has been made by the respondents and therefore, I am not inclined to proceed further in this contempt petition.

Rule discharged.

However, the petitioner shall be at liberty to contest the application, if any, filed by the University for extension of time to initiate the disciplinary proceedings against him. The petitioner shall also be at
liberty to seek any other appropriate relief in accordance with law.

[ Rakesh Kumar Garg ]
Judge

DINESH GOYAL Vs VICE CHANCELLOR PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

CWP No. 11128 of 2009

Date of decision 10 .8.2009

Dinesh Goyal ... Petitioner
Versus
Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh and others ... Respondents.

CORAM:
HON BLE MR. JUSTICE M.M. KUMAR
HON BLE MR. JUSTICE JASWANT SINGH

Present:
Mr.Amit Goyal ,Advocate for the petitioner
Mr. Vikrant Sharma, Advocate for the respondents

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgement ?

2. To be referred to the Reporter or not ?

3. Whether the judgement should be reported in the Digest ?

M.M.KUMAR, J.
The petitioner who is graduate in B.Tech had applied for admission to the post graduation course in Gandhian and Peace Studies at Punjab University, Chandigarh. In June, 2009, admission notice was published in the leading newspapers including the The Tribune announcing the last date of filing application which was fixed as 6.7.2009. The notice clearly stipulated that details governing all aspects of admission of various courses are furnished in the Punjab University Calendar and Hand Book of Information ( R/5.1). The petitioner had applied vide his application dated 6.7.2009 and he was fully aware that being B.Tech. he was not eligible for admission to the aforesaid course. He was accordingly informed by the department on 14.7.2009 that he was not eligible at the time of interview and also on 15.7.2009 he was apprised about his ineligibility. The normal
admission without late fee to the post graduation course commenced on 17.7.2009 and concluded on 21.7.2009. The instant petition was filed on 24.7.2009 which was returned by the Registry with some objection on 25.7.2009. The petitioner again re-filed the petition on 27.7.2009 which came up for hearing on 28.7.2009. The principal attack on Clause (viii) of Rule 7.1 of Regulation 3.1 (Vol. II) is on the ground that once a person with
B.A./B.Sc/ B.Com with 2nd class has been made eligible for admission to Gandhian and Peace Studies then a person with qualification like B.Tech. cannot be excluded. The aforesaid rule is extracted below:

7.1 Admission to P.G.courses in the Faculty of Art and languages.

Admission to M.A. Part I Regulation 3.1 given at page no. 7 of PU Cal. Vol. III Eligibility

(viii)For Gandhian and Peace Studies a person who has passed:

(a) B.A./ B./Com/ obtaining 45% marks in any of the following subjects:

a) History
b) Political Science
c) Economics
d) Philosophy
e) psychology
f) Public Administration
g) Geography
h) sociology
or
(b) Diploma or Post Graduate diploma in Gandhian

Studies or M.A. Examination in the above subjects or B.A./B.Sc/ B.Com in second class shall be eligible.

We have heard the learned counsel for the parties and perused the paper book with their able assistance.

The petitioner was aware in June, 2009 when notice was published in the Tribune (R.5.1) that he was not eligible because degree of B.Tech does not figure in the eligibility qualifications. He was further apprised of his ineligibility on 6.7.2009, 14.7.2009 and 15.7.2009. The interviews were concluded as counseling was from 17.7.2009 to 21.7.2009.

The writ petition has obviously been filed after the admissions are over.

There is neither any material placed on record nor argument raised before us to conclude that Rule 7.1 of the Rules does not answer the mandate of Article 14 of the Constitution.

The age old principle is to presume in favour of the constitutionality of a provision unless proven otherwise. However, in the present case if it is assumed that rule 7.1 of the Rules does not meet the constitutional requirement of Article 14 of the Constitution then it could not be concluded that the petitioner alone would become eligible for taking admission to the post graduate course of Gandhian and Peace Studies. It would require the University to issue a fresh notice inviting applications from all the candidates having qualification of
B.Tech. for admission to this course. The applicants may be even more meritorious than the petitioner and some admitted candidates may also have to make rooms for them. It would be only then that the requirement of Article 14 of the Constitution would stand satisfied. The admissions are already over by the time the writ petition was filed. The petitioner has allowed to develop a situation which is his own creation. To disturb the admission of candidates who are already admitted and are in the classes would not be fair especially when those candidates are not before us.

Therefore, we are not inclined at such a belated stage to examine the validity of the aforesaid rule at the instance of such a lazy petitioner. The petition infact is belated and any interference with the career of the andidates already admitted to the course would be unwarranted. It wouldamount to writing the rules of the game after the game is over. There is thus no merit in the petition.

For the reasons afore mentioned this petition fails and the same is dismissed.

(M.M.Kumar)
Judge

(Jaswant Singh)
Judge

DR PUNEET KAPOOR Vs THE PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

C.W.P. No. 11761 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION : 07.08.2009

Dr. Puneet Kapoor .... PETITIONER
Versus
The Panjab University, Chandigarh ..... RESPONDENTS

CORAM :-
HON BLE MR. JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL

Present:
Mr. A.P.S. Shergill, Advocate, for the petitioner.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL , J. ( Oral )
The petitioner, who is holding the degree of MBBS, MD Anesthesia with more than 5 years teaching experience and is working as Senior Lecturer, Department of Anesthesia in Dr. Harvansh Singh Judge Institute of Dental Sciences, Sector 25, Chandigarh, Panjab University, has filed the instant petition for issuing direction to the respondent University not to reserve the single vacancy of Reader Anesthesia in the said Institute, for any particular category. Dr. (Mrs.) Urvashi Sharma, Senior Lecturer in Pedodontics in the same Institute, had filed the similar writ petition (CWP No. 11338 of 2009), which was disposed of by this Court on July 30, 2009, in the following terms :

In view of the aforesaid facts, after hearing counsel for the petitioner and without issuing notice of motion, this petition is disposed of with a direction to respondent No.1 to consider and decide the representation dated 20.7.2009 (Annexure P-14) in accordance with law, expeditiously, preferably within a period of one month and in any case, prior to the date of holding the interview for the said post.

Learned counsel for the petitioner states that the representation dated 15.7.2009 (Annexure P-7), given by the petitioner, may also be directed to be considered and decided by the authorities.

In view of the above, after hearing counsel for the petitioner and without issuing notice of motion, as it will un-necessary delay the matter, this petition is disposed of with a direction to the respondent University to consider and decide the representation dated 15.7.2009 (Annexure P-7) in accordance with law, expeditiously, preferably within a period of one month and in any case, prior to the date of holding the interview for the said post.

( SATISH KUMAR MITTAL )
JUDGE

SHEFALI MITTAL Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANOTHER

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

CWP 9529 of 2009

Date of Decision: 6.8.2009.

Shefali Mittal .........Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and another ..........Respondents

CORAM:
HON BLE MR.JUSTICE M.M.KUMAR
HON BLE MR.JUSTICE JASWANT SINGH.

Present:
Ms.Anu Chatrath,Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr.HS Shergill,Advocate for respondent no.1.
Mr.Sameer Sachdeva,Advocate for respondent no.2.

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgement ?
2. To be referred to the Reporter or not ?
3. Whether the judgement should be reported in the Digest ?

JASWANT SINGH,J.
Petitioner appeared in Senior Secondary (Open School) Examination held by Punjab School Education Board, Mohali (for short, the Board ) in March 2008. She secured more than 33 % of aggregate marks with compartment in the subject of History by securing 21 marks i.e more than 20% in compartment paper. Despite her compartment in History, she being eligible as per the college prospectus to get admission in B.A.I Examination, was admitted by respondent no.2-College in B.A. Part I. The petitioner attended B.A. Part I Classes throughout the academic session 2008-09. In the meanwhile she also cleared her compartment in History in 10+2 examination held in September 2008 and reported/informed the respondent no.2 college on 24.11.2008. The detailed mark sheet in respect of her 10+2 examination was received by her on 7.1.2009 (Copy Annexure P/6) which was also furnished to respondent no.2-College.

For appearing in B.A.Part I Examination the petitioner was allotted roll no.1460800027 (Annexure P/7) and she appeared in the said examination. At the asking of the respondent college, the petitioner submitted her original detailed marks card of 10+2 examination in its office on 2.5.2009.

It is case of the petitioner that respondent no.1-University vide its letter dated 12.5.2009 (Annexure P/10) illegally held her ineligible for admission to B.A, Part I Session 2008-09 as per admission guidelines 3 (f) dated 28.5.2008, being a compartment case in 10+2 examination conducted by the Punjab School Education Board under the Open School Scheme and further directed that her name be struck off from the rolls of the college and her result of B.A Part I be not declared. On being informed about the decision of the respondent
no.1-University, the petitioner took up the matter with University authorities but of no avail. Hence the present writ petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India praying for quashing of impugned memo dated 12.5.2009 (Annexure P.10) and for directing the respondents to declare her result of B.A.I with a further direction to allow her to seek admission in B.A.IInd Year with a further prayer to quash the Guideline 3(f) issued by respondent No.1- University for admission in B.A Part-I, on the ground that it runs counter to the Regulations 4.2 contained in Chapter VIII of Panjab University Calendar 2005, Vol. II regarding the conduct of examination of B.A-I (General) framed by the Senate, the competent authority, in exercise of
its powers under Section 31 of the Panjab University Act, 1947.

Upon notice respondents filed separate written statements.

Respondent no.1-University in its short reply submitted that guideline 3(f) mentioned, to which challenge has been laid in the present petition specifically covers only those students who have passed +2 examination from open school and that the said Regulations 4.2 covers those students who have been placed in
compartment in one subject whereas in Open School System there is no compartment but a candidate gets six chances to reappear in the failed subject and if placed in compartment the candidate has to clear the compartment subject in two consecutive chances or else the candidate has to take full subject examination.

Respondent no.2-College in its written statement has taken a plea that the college was not, at all, aware at the time of grant of admission in B.A Course that the petitioner has appeared in +2 examination conducted by the Board under the Open School Scheme as all the documents submitted with the admission form did not so reveal.

It was further stated that this fact came to the notice of the college authorities for the first time when the petitioner submitted her original mark sheet of +2. It is further their stand that in terms of clause 3(f) contained in Instructions dated 28.5.2008 issued by Panjab University, only those students from recognized open schools are eligible to seek admission in B.A Part I, if their result in +2 is shown as PASS .

Clause 3(f) of the said instructions has been reproduced, which reads as under:

3(f) Students who have passed +2 exam, from recognized Open School are eligible for admission to the B.A/B.Sc (General)/B.Com-Ist year course, only if their result is shown as PASS in their certificates issued by the said Open Schools and they have obtained the requisite percentage of marks prescribed under the University for admission to the concerned course. In case their result has not been shown as PASS in the relevant column of the said certificate they being ineligible, be not admitted.

We have heard learned counsel for the parties and perused the paper book with their able assistance.

Learned counsel for the petitioner has submitted that the petitioner being eligible as per the terms and conditions prescribed in the prospectus issued by respondent No.2-College was granted admission in B.A Part I, Session 2008-2009 and at no stage, any misrepresentation or mis-statement was made either in the application form or at any other stage regarding any fact relating to the details of her result of +2 examination conducted by the Board. It was thus argued that it was unjust,unfair and unreasonable on the part of the
respondents-authorities to cancel her admission to B.A.Part I after she had appeared in the examination for B.APart I and also declared as PASS in +2 examination. Reliance was placed on a judgment of Hon ble Supreme Court rendered in Shri Krishan v.The Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra AIR 1976 Supreme Court 376.

Learned counsel for the petitioner has further contended that the contents of instructions 3(f) dated 28.5.2008 postulating that the students, who have passed +2 examinations from Open Schools are eligible for admission to B.A, Ist year Course if the result is shown as PASS are ultra vires clause 4.2 of the Regulations dealing with conduct of examinations framed by the Panjab University Senate contained in Chapter VIII (page 34 onwards) in the Panjab University Calendar, Vol.II, 2005, which do not support such a view and, therefore deserves to be set aside.

On the other hand, learned counsel for the respondents has argued that the instructions 3(f) dated 28.5.2008 has to be read in harmony with the provisions/Regulations contained in the University calendar and there is nothing arbitrary in insisting that for the candidates, who have passed their +2 examination from Open School System should be eligible for admission to B.A Part I Course in the event of they having been declared as PASS and not otherwise since, under Open School System, there is no compartment but the candidate gets six chances to re-appear in the failed subject whereas under the regular system, a candidate has to clear the compartment in two consecutive chances or else the candidate has to take full subject exam.

Learned counsel for respondent No.2-college, however, very graciously conceded that from the next session onward, such a condition has been dispensed with.

After giving our thoughtful consideration to the rival submission of the parties and the pleadings, we are of the opinion that the contentions raised by learned counsel for the petitioner are meritorious and deserves acceptance.

Before dealing with the contentions, it is necessary to reproduce Eligibility Conditions No.3 and 4 mentioned in the prospectus issued by respondent No.2-College for seeking admission to B.A Part I Session 2008-09, which reads as under:

3. The candidates placed under compartment in any subject in 10+2 examination of P.S.E.B are eligible for
admission to B.A-I on the condition that they have secured minimum 33% marks in aggregate (including the marks obtained in the compartment subject) and have obtained at least 20% marks (Theory and Practical taken together) in the subject of compartment.

4. A candidate placed under compartment in 10+2 examination shall be granted admission only on provisional basis. She is required to clear the compartment in the concerned subject in the two chances provided in the same year.

It is not disputed that the aforesaid two conditions are in consonance with the provisions of Regulation 4.2 (reproduced at page 8 of the paper book) governing conduct of examination, which postulates that a candidate placed under compartment in +2 examination conducted by a Board shall be eligible to seek admission to B.A Ist Year provided he has been placed in compartment in one subject only and has obtained at least 20% marks in that subject and further must possess 33 % marks in the aggregate of all the subjects
taken up by him in the examinations. It is also not in dispute that the petitioner in her +2 examination held by the Board in March, 2008, had got compartment in the subject of History only by securing 21 marks i.e more than 20% of the marks. It is also not dispute that she had secured more than 33 % of the aggregate marks for all the subjects.

It is also admitted that respondent No.2-college found her eligible as per the eligibility conditions in the prospectus and granted her admission to B.A. Part I in the academic session 2008-09. The fact that the petitioner was eligible to be granted admission to B.A Part I is further borne out from a bare reading of eligibility conditions No.3 and 4 reproduced hereinabove. It is also an admitted case that the petitioner had cleared her compartment in History in +2 examination held in September 2008. It is also not the case of the respondents-authorities that the petitioner had made any misrepresentation at the time of seeking admission.

It is further admitted fact that the petitioner was permitted to undertake annual examination for B.A (Ist year) conducted by the respondent-University held in March 2009. It is also admitted that for the next session onward, such a condition for candidates seeking admission in B.A Part I has been dispensed with, therefore, assuming even if the contents of aforesaid clause 3(f) were valid, in our considered opinion keeping in view the totality of the facts of this case, the cancellation of admission of the petitioner to B.A Part I is wholly
unwarranted and thus sustainable.

The view taken herein finds support from the judgment rendered by Hon ble Supreme Court in Shri Krishan s case (supra), wherein a law student had not attended the prescribed courses of lecture, was permitted to appear in the examination, it was held that once the candidate is allowed to take the examination, rightly or
wrongly, then the statute which empowers the University to withdraw the candidate of the applicant has worked itself out and the candidate cannot be refused admission subsequently for any infirmity which should have been looked into before giving the candidate permission to appear.

The ratio of the above judgment has been reiterated in a recent case decided by Hon ble the Supreme Court in Guru Nanak Dev University v. Sanjay Kumar Katwal and another (2009) 1 Supreme Court Cases 610 wherein a student admitted to a law college was subsequently discovered to be ineligible as he did not possess the prescribed qualifications for admission, it has held that his admission should not be cancelled. The relevant paragraphs of this judgment reads as under:

19. The first respondent was informed that he was not eligible only after he took the first semester examination. He has, however, also been permitted to continue the course and has completed the course in 2007. He has succeeded before the High Court. Now after four years, if it is to be held that he is not entitled to admission, four years of his career will be irretrievably lost. In the circumstances, it will be unfair and
unjust to deny the first respondent the benefit of admission which was initially accepted and recognised by the appellant University.

20. This Court in Shri Krishnan v. Kurukshetra University has observed that before issuing the admission card to a student to appear in Part I Law examination, it was the duty of the university authorities to scrutinise the papers; and equally it was the duty of the Head of the Department of Law before submitting the form to the university to see that it complied with all requirements; and if they did not take care to scrutinize the papers, the candidature for the examinations cannot be cancelled subsequently on the ground of non-fulfilment of requirements.

21. In Sanatan Gauda v. Berhampur University, this Court held where the candidate was admitted to the Law course by the Law College and the university also permitted him to appear for Pre-Law and Intermediate Law examinations, the college and the university were estopped from withholding his result on the ground that he was ineligible to take admission in the Law course.

22. Having regard to the above we are of the view that irrespective of the fact that MA (English)(OUS) degree secured by the first respondent from Annamalai University through distance education, may not be recognised as an equivalent to the Master s degree of the appellant University, his admission to the law course should not be cancelled. The appellant University is directed to treat the admission as regular
admission and permit the first respondent to appear for the law examination, and if he has already appeared for the examination, declare his result. The appeal is disposed of accordingly.

The aforesaid settled legal position applies on all fours to the admitted facts of the present case, therefore, petitioner must succeed on the first contention raised itself and hence we do not feel necessity of dealing with the second contention raised on behalf of the petitioner.

In view of the above discussion, present writ petition is allowed. Letter dated 12.5.2009 (Annexure P.10) is quashed with a direction to respondent-Authorities to declare forthwith the result of petitioner of B.A Part II Examination and further if found eligible, as per Rules, be granted permission to B.A Part II by respondent No.2- College.

(M.M.Kumar)
Judge

(Jaswant Singh)
Judge

DR (MRS ) URVASHI SHARMA Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND ANOTHER

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

C.W.P. No. 11338 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION : 30.07.2009

Dr. (Ms.) Urvashi Sharma .... PETITIONER
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and another ..... RESPONDENTS

CORAM :-
HON BLE MR. JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL

Present:
Mr. Girish Agnihotri, Senior Advocate, with
Ms. Binayjeet Sheoran, Advocate, for the petitioner.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL , J. ( Oral )
The petitioner is working as a Senior Lecturer in Pedodontics in Dr. Harvansh Singh Judge Institute of Dental Sciences, P.U.. She has filed the instant petition for quashing the advertisement (Annexure P-12), vide
which the single post of Reader in the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry has been reserved for Scheduled Caste.

It is the case of the petitioner that earlier the said post was advertised for General category candidates, in which the petitioner was also called for twice to appear in the interview, but subsequently the said advertisement/interview was cancelled. It is also the case of the petitioner that in this regard, she has given a representation dated 20.7.2009(Annexure P-14), raising the grouse that a single post of Reader in the
Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry cannot be reserved for Scheduled Caste category. It is the further case of the petitioner that the said representation has not been considered and decided so far and the
respondents are likely to complete the selection against the said advertisement.

In view of the aforesaid facts, after hearing counsel for the petitioner and without issuing notice of motion, this petition is disposed of with a direction to respondent No.1 to consider and decide the representation dated 20.7.2009 (Annexure P-14) in accordance with law, expeditiously, preferably within a period of one month and in any case, prior to the date of holding the interview for the said post.

( SATISH KUMAR MITTAL )
JUDGE

KULWANT SINGH Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND OTHERS

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.W.P. No.11031 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION: JULY 27, 2009

Kulwant Singh .....PETITIONER
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others ....RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HONBLE MR.JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL

Present:
Mr.Puneet Gupta, Advocate, for the petitioner.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL, J. (Oral)
The petitioner, who is working as Sub Divisional Engineer (Electrical) in Panjab University, Chandigarh, has filed the instant petition for quashing the letter dated 10.6.2008 (Annexure P9) whereby the respondent-University has declined to review the illegal promotion of the junior of the petitioner on the post of Executive Engineer.

It is the case of the petitioner that in the impugned order dated 10.6.2008 (Annexure P9) only it has been stated that the petitioner could not be promoted on the post of Executive Engineer because of nonavailability of vacant post. The issue regarding seniority of the petitioner vis-a-vis respondent No.3 has not been considered at all. It is further the case of the petitioner that the Vice Chancellor of the respondent-University
has constituted a Committee to look into the representations filed by the petitioner.

Counsel for the petitioner states that the said Committee has not finally taken any decision and the matter is still pending consideration.

Counsel further states that the petitioner has made a representation to the Vice Chancellor in this regard, copy of which has been annexed as Annexure P12 and subsequently on 20.4.2009 again sent a reminder, but till date the Committee is not holding the meetings and taking any final decision. Counsel states that at this stage the petitioner will be satisfied if a direction is issued to the Vice Chancellor to ensure that the said Committee decides the matter expeditiously.

In view of the above, without issuing notice to the other side as it will unnecessary delay the matter, this petition is disposed of with a direction to the Vice Chancellor (respondent No.2) to consider the representations dated 21.6.2008 (Annexure P12) and 20.4.2009 (Annexure P13) and ensure that the Committee appointed by him to consider the said issue may take the final decision expeditiously, preferably within a period of three months, in accordance with law.

(SATISH KUMAR MITTAL)
JUDGE

PRABHJOT SINGH Vs PUNJAB UNIVESITY CHANDIGARH AND OTHERS

CWP No.9714 of 2008

In the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Chandigarh.

Date of decision: 21.07.2009

Prabhjot Singh ... Petitioner
Versus
Punjab University, Chandigarh and others ... Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE PERMOD KOHLI

Present:
Mr.Parveen Gupta, Advocate, for the petitioners
Mr.Baljit Puri, Advocate, for respondent Nos.1 and 2.
Mr.SK Sharma, Advocate, for respondent No.3.

PERMOD KOHLI, J. (Oral)
The petitioner was admitted to respondent No.2 Institute in the discipline of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (B.E. Course) on the basis of the counseling held on 12.08.2007. On the next following day, i.e. 13.08.2007 he deposited a sum of Rs.39545/- plus Rs.1155/- for respondent No.2 Institute for the academic Session 2007-2008 vide receipt No.6374 dated 13.08.2007. Another sum of Rs.500/- was also deposited on account of the Membership fee vide receipt No.1345 dated 13.08.2007.

In the meantime, the petitioner came to be selected in the National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar, in the discipline of Instrumentation and Control. Since the petitioner has preferred to join National Institute of Technology, Jalandhar, he applied for the refund of the fee on 17.08.2007. The request of the petitioner for refund of the fee has been rejected by respondent No.2 vide letter dated 05.03.2008, Annexure P- 5, on the ground that the seat vacated by the petitioner was not filled in and, thus, the petitioner is not entitled to refund of the fee under the University rules and regulations.

It is this communication which has been impugned in the present writ petition. The petitioner has relied upon the instructions issued by the All Indian Council for Technical Education (hereinafter referred to the AICTE) regarding the refund of the fee. The relevant part of the instructions reads as under:-

In the event of student/candidate withdrawing before the starting of the course, the wait listed candidates should be given admissions against the vacant seat. The entire fee collected from the student, after the deduction of the processing fee of not more than Rs.1000/- (Rupees thousand only) shall be refunded and returned by the Institution/University to the student/Candidate withdrawing from the programme. It would not permissible for Institutions and Universities to retain the School/institution, Leaving Certificates withdrawing from the programme. It would not be permissible for Institutions and Universities to retain the School /Institution Leaving Certificates
in original/ Should a student leave after joining the course and if the seat consequently falling vacant has been filled by another candidate by the last date of admission, the Institution must return the fee collected with proportionate deductions of monthly fee and proportionate hostel rent, where applicable.

The petitioner also served a legal notice to the AICTE claiming refund of the fee deposited by him. In response to the legal notice of the petitioner, the AICTE vide its reply dated 4.7.2008 communicated is policy decision. The relevant extract of the aforesaid communication is quoted hereunder:-

Kindly take note that AICTE has been empowered under Section 10 (n) of AITE Act to
“take all necessary step to prevent commercialization of technical education”.

Nonrefund of fee subsequent upon a student not continuing with the course, amounts to
commercialization of education.

Your are therefore advised to refund the tuition fee as per rule, deposited in our Institution by him at the earliest possible. You are also advised to refer to the Public notice issued by the AICTE vide Advertisement No.AICTE/Legal/04 (01)/2007 making it clear that any violation shall call for punitive action including withdrawal of approval and recognition of erring institution.

A report on the action taken by the Institute may please be sent to this office within one week of the receipt of this letter alongwith detailed comments to enable this office t forward the same to the Director (Public Grievances), AICTE, 7 th Floor, Chandra Lok Building, Near Connaught Place, Janpath, New Delhi-110001. You are also requested to send on copy of the report directly to the Director (Public Grievances), New Delhi.

Respondent No.2 has filed the written statement and defended the instructions of non-refund of the fee by relying upon Clause 7 (1) of the Joint Admission Brochure for the Sessions 2007-2008 as also instructions dated 16.04.2007. However, it is contended that the seat vacated by the petitioner was not filled up and, thus, the petitioner is not entitled to the refund of the amount. The respondents have also relied upon UGC
instructions in this regard which reads as under:-

UGC:
The Ministry of Human Resource Development and University Grants Commission have considered the issue and decided that the institutions and universities, in the Public Interest shall maintain a waiting list of students/candidates. In the event of a student/candidate withdrawing before the commencement of the course, the waitlisted candidates should be given admission against the vacant seat. The entire fee collected from the student, after a deduction of the processing fee of not more than Rs.1000/- (one thousand only) shall be refunded and returned by the institution/University to the
student/candidate withdrawing from the programme. Should a student leave after joining the course and if the seat consequently falling vacant has been filled by another candidate by the last date of admission, the institution must return the fee collected with proportionate deductions of monthly fee and proportionate hostel rent, where applicable.

On the basis of the aforesaid instructions, it is contended that the seat vacated by the petitioner remained unfilled by the last date of the admission. Thus, the petitioner is not entitled to the refund of the amount.

From the reading of the aforesaid instructions relied upon by the respondents those notified by the AICTE, it becomes crystal clear that if a selected student withdraws before the starting of the course, waiting list candidate should be given the admission against the vacancy. The student who has withdrawn from the course is entitled to refund of the fee collected by the Institute after deduction of the processing fee, but not more than Rs.1000/-. To the same effect are the instructions of the University Grants
Commission. In the present case, admittedly, the petitioner joined on 13.08.2007 and withdrew from the Course on 17.08.2007 i.e within a period of four days. In accordance with the instructions, the respondent-Institute is entitled to retain Rs.1000/- only for processing charges and nothing more.

The total stand of the respondents is that the seat vacated by the petitioner remained unfilled. The instructions clearly provides for filling up the seat from the waiting list.

The respondents have no where stated in the reply that any waiting list was prepared and notified. If the respondents did not prepare any waiting list, the question of filling up the seat from the waiting list does not arise. In such a situation, the petitioner cannot be blamed for the inaction on the part of the respondents. If the seat remained unfilled, the blame lies with the respondent-Institute and not with the petitioner. In view of the Instructions of the AICTE and UGC, the respondents were duty bound to refund the fee if the student has withdrawn before the commencement of the course. It is also not the case of the respondents that the petitioner withdrew after the commencement of the Course. Rather the averment made in the writ petition is that the petitioner withdrew from the course on 17.08.2007 before the commencement of the course which fact has not been disputed.

In view of the above circumstances, the respondents are entitled to retain Rs.1000/- as processing fee out of the total fee deposited by the petitioner. Rest of the amount is liable to be refunded to the petitioner in law.

For the reasons recorded above, this petition is allowed.

Respondent No.2 is directed to refund the entire fee deposited by the petitioner except Rs.1000/- on account of processing charges. Let the amount be refunded to the petitioner within a period of four weeks from today. No costs.

(PERMOD KOHLI)
JUDGE

DR PRADEEP SINGH Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND OTHERS

SUBHASH CHANDER ANEJA Vs THE REGISTRAR PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND A

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh

R.S.A. No. 1742 of 2009 (O and M)

Date of decision: May 27, 2009

Subhash Chander Aneja .. Appellant
Vs.
The Registrar, Panjab University, Chandigarh and another .. Respondents

Coram:
Hon ble Mr. Justice A.N. Jindal

Present:
Mr. N.K. Suneja, Advocate for the appellant.

A.N. Jindal, J
This is appellant s second appeal against the judgment dated 5.3.2009 passed by the learned Additional District Judge, Panipat, dismissing the appeal of the appellant-plaintiff (herein referred as the appellant ) for correction of the date of birth.

The plaintiff has come up with the allegations that he was known as Manohar Lal at the time of his birth and his actual date of birth was 15.9.1953, whereas, it was recorded wrongly as 1.5.1951 in the certificate of Higher Secondary Part-I Examination issued by the respondent-Punjab University, Chandigarh. Thus, he stressed for declaring his date of birth as 15.9.1953. He has also taken shelter of the judgment Updesh Kumar etc. vs. Prithvi Singh and others, 2001 (1) LJR 789;
Resham Singh vs. Union of India and another, 2008 (1) RandJ 330; State of Punjab and another vs. Megh Raj Garg 2003 (1) RandJ 36; Ashgar Khan vs. Union of India 1998 (4) RandJ 118.

Both the Courts below dismissed the suit.

Heard.
The appellant has not led any sufficient evidence in order to establish that he was actually known as Manohar Lal at the time of his birth.

No reason has been assigned as to why and under what circumstances his earlier name was changed. Ram Piari (PW3) wife of late Sher Chand has no where stated in her affidavit Ex.PW3/A that plaintiff was also known as Manohar Lal at the time of his birth. Thus, the said certificate (Ex.P2) relating to Manohar Lal cannot be held to be in any way connected with the appellant. Any way, for the sake of arguments, it is presumed that the date of birth of the appellant was 15.9.1953, and he was issued certificate of Higher Secondary Part-I Examination in the year 1968, whereas, the present suit was filed for correction of date of birth against the Punjab University on 17.10.2005. During this period from 1968 to 2005, the plaintiff never moved any application for correction of the date of birth. The plaintiff did not represent to the university before filing of the present suit by moving application to that effect. As such, at the fag end of his retirement in 2009, the appellant cannot come to contend that his date of birth was not correct particularly when he continued getting benefits of the said date of birth as recorded in the papers, at the time of getting appointment and promotions.

Thus, the matter also suffers from delay and laches.

The Apex Court in case Secy. and Commr., Home Deptt. and Ors. v. R. Kirubakaran, 1994 Supp. (1) SCC 155, has observed as under :-

7. An application for correction of the date of birth should not be dealt with by the tribunal or the High Court keeping in view only the public servant concerned. It need not to pointed out that any such direction for correction of the date of birth of the public servant concerned has a chain reaction, inasmuch as others waiting for years, below him for their respective promotions are affected in this process. Some are likely to suffer irreparable injury, inasmuch as, because of the
correction of the date of birth, the officer concerned, continues in office, in some cases for years, within which time many officers who are below him in seniority waiting for their promotion, may lose their promotion for ever. Cases are not unknown when a person accepts appointment keeping in view the date of retirement of his immediate senior. According to us, this is an important aspect, which cannot be lost sight of by the court or the tribunal while examining the grievance of a public servant in respect of correction of his date of birth. As such, unless a clear case on the basis of materials which can be held to be conclusive in nature, is made out by the respondent, the court or the tribunal should not issue a direction, on the basis of materials which make such claim only plausible. Before any such direction is issued, the court or the tribunal must be fully satisfied that there has been real injustice to the person concerned and his claim for correction of date of birth has been made in accordance with the procedure prescribed, and within the time fixed by any rule or order. If no rule or other has been framed or made, prescribing the period within which such application has to be filed, then such application must be filed within the time, which can be held to be reasonable. The applicant has to produce the evidence in support of such claim, which may amount to irrefutable proof relating to his date of birth. Whenever, any such question arises, the onus is on the applicant, to prove the wrong recording of his date of birth, in his service book.

In many cases it is a part of a strategy on the part of such public servants to approach the court or the tribunal on the eve of their retirement, questioning the correctness of the entries in respect of their dates of birth in the service books. By this process, it has come to the notice of this Court that in many cases, even if ultimately their applications are dismissed, by virtue of interim orders, they continue for months, after the date of superannuation. The court or the tribunal must,
therefore, be slow in granting an interim relief for continuation in service, unless prima facie evidence of impeachment character is produced because if the public servant succeeds, he can always be compensated, but if he fails, he would have enjoyed undeserved benefit of extended service and merely caused injustice to his immediate junior.

There is catina of judgments delivered by the Apex Court dissuading correction of the date of birth at the fag end of the service career after long years and consistent view has been taken that the correction in the entries made in the Government record on the basis of which Government
servant gets the service cannot be allowed to be changed just a few years before the retirement or the fag end of his retirement. The Apex Court while discussing chain of judgments took the view that the date of birth on the basis of which party seeking correction continued getting benefit cannot ask for correction of such date of birth at the fag end of his service career.

It may further be noticed that every statutory body or a government department has its own rules for correction of the date of birth, but no such back door entry for correction of date of birth could be adopted.

The procedure as provided under the department is permissible. It is also not clear as to why the cause of action accrued against Punjab University after a period of 37 years for correction of date of birth particularly when he had not impleaded the party against whom he wanted to use the correct date of birth, therefore, in the absence of disclosing any cause of action the suit was not maintainable.

From the aforesaid discussions, it transpires that no substantial question of law arises or is involved in the case.

Resultantly, finding no merit in the appeal the same is dismissed.

(A.N. Jindal)
Judge

PUNEET KAUR GILL Vs PUNJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and ORS

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Civil Writ Petition No. 8271 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION : MAY 27, 2009

PUNEET KAUR GILL ....... PETITIONER(S)
VERSUS
PUNJAB UNIVERSITY, CHANDIGARH and ORS. .... RESPONDENT(S)

CORAM :
HON BLE MR. JUSTICE AJAI LAMBA

PRESENT:
Mr. JS Toor, Advocate, for the petitioner(s).

AJAI LAMBA, J. (Oral)
Learned counsel for the petitioner contends that the publication of prospectus is not in accordance with the provisions of the University Calendar. The petitioner was not duly informed about the
entrance test and the important dates in that regard.

It has further been contended that the petitioner has made a representation, however, no decision thereon has been taken. A copy of the representation has been placed on record as Annexure 23.

Learned counsel for the petitioner prays that the petition beCivil Writ Petition No. 8271 of 2009 2
dismissed as withdrawn to enable the petitioner to pursue the representation made to the Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh.

Dismissed as withdrawn.
Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh is required to consider the representation (Annexure P-23) and pass an order thereon under information/intimation to the petitioner, within 2 weeks from the date of receipt of certified copy of this order.

Copy of the order be given dasti under the signatures of the Reader of the Bench.

( AJAI LAMBA )
JUDGE

UJHAR SINGH Vs VICE CHANCELLOR PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.W.P. No. 7900 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION: MAY 22, 2009

Jujhar Singh.....PETITIONER
Versus
Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh and another ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON BLE MR.JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL

Present:
Mr.Vijay Kumar Kaushal, Advocate, for the petitioner.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL, J.
The petitioner was appointed as Clerk on compassionate ground on 18.9.1997 in Panjab University. On 8.7.2003, the petitioner was permitted to go on study leave to pursue the higher studies at Switzerland on the condition that he will not work or accept any paid job during his stay
in Switzerland. Consequently, he was granted extra-ordinary leave without pay w.e.f. 8.7.2003 to 7.7.2004.

It is the case of the petitioner that after 7.7.2004 he was requesting the respondents to extend his leave to enable him to pursue his higher studies for a further period of three years, but as per the information supplied to the petitioner under the Right to Information Act, a copy of which has been annexed as Annexure P-2, the petitioner did not apply for extension of leave after expiry of the period of his extra-ordinary leave without pay i.e. 7.7.2004. On 26.8.2004, a show cause notice was issued to the petitioner as to why the post held by him should not be declared vacant
under Regulation 11.9 of the respondent-University on the ground that he had not joined his duty after availing extra-ordinary leave without pay. It appears that no reply was filed by the petitioner to the said notice. Now after five years of the said show cause notice, the petitioner has filed the instant petition for issuing direction to the respondents to allow him to join his duties on the post of Clerk with a further direction to count the period of unauthorized absence as leave of the kind due. It has not been disclosed in the petition whether a final decision has been taken by the respondentauthorities in view of the said show cause notice.

After hearing the counsel for the petitioner and going through the contents of the petition, and in the facts and circumstances of the case, where the petitioner remains absent after the expiry of the extra-ordinary leave without pay without any further prayer for extension of leave, and files such a petition after more than five years to allow him to join his duties, and looking to the conduct of the petitioner, I am not inclined to entertain this petition in exercise of writ jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution of India.

Dismissed.

(SATISH KUMAR MITTAL)
JUDGE

HARNEET SINGH Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and OTHERS Civil Writ Petition 6747 of 2009

ASEEM AGGARWAL and ORS Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and ORS Civil Writ Petition 5340 of 2009

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

DATE OF DECISION : MAY 19, 2009

ASEEM AGGARWAL and ORS. ....... PETITIONER(S)
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY and ORS. .... RESPONDENT(S)

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE AJAI LAMBA

PRESENT:
Mr. Harsh Aggarwal, Advocate, for the petitioner(s).
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for respondents.

AJAI LAMBA, J. (Oral)
Learned counsel for the petitioners contends that the matter has been rendered infructuous as the petitioners have been allowed to take the examination.

Disposed of as infructuous.

( AJAI LAMBA )
JUDGE

USHA KHOSLA Vs ARUN KUMAR AND ANOTHER Civil Revision 6495 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

(O and M)

Date of decision:04.05.2009

Usha Khosla .....Petitioner
Versus
Arun Kumar and another ....Respondents

Present:
Mr. A.C. Jain, Advocate with
Ms. Aparna Jain, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. K.S. Rikhi, Advocate for the respondent.

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE K. KANNAN

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment ?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not ?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

K.KANNAN, J. (ORAL)
1. The order, which is impugned is by virtue of which three documents were removed out of consideration as sought for by the defendant. One document was a memorandum of partial partition,
another was the entry in the register of Notary Public and the third document was an entry in Panjab University relating to date of birth.

2. The Court while rejecting the application filed by the defendant reserved the right to the party to contend about the admissibility of the document at the time of arguments. Learned counsel for the revision petitioner states that the procedure adopted by the Court was erroneous and places his reliance on the judgment of this Court in Girdhari Lal Vs. Ritesh Mahajan and another Vol.CXLII (2006-1) PLR 344. There the Court was dealing with the procedure adopted by a Rent Controller postponing the consideration of the objection regarding the relevance of some documents. While a procedure, which this Court has frowned upon could be adopted in cases where the issue relating to the relevance is so obvious that the Court shall consider it immediately so that the cross-examination of the cases on relevant issues would go unhampered.

3. There is again another situation when the Court invariably grapples with viz. the admissibility of certain documents and consideration of certain provisions of law regarding the admissibility that are not easy to deal with. In this case, the memorandum of partial partition that was sought to be introduced pertained to an objection contained under Section 49 of the Registration Act. The objection was also on the ground that it was only a copy and that the original had not been filed. The documents had merely been filed and in the face of objection, the procedure which the Court had followed was to admit them, subjecting, however, the consideration regarding the extent of admissibility to be considered at a later stage. The Hon'ble Supreme Court in Bipin Shantilal Panchal Vs. State of Gujarat JT 2001(3) SC 120 has pointed out that Courts shall not hold up proceedings on mere objections relating to the admissibility of
documents and a practice that was commended was admitting documents subject to such objections as the parties raised and leaving the parties with liberty of addressing comprehensively on every objection at the time of arguments. This decision although was rendered while considering certain provisions of Criminal Procedure Code, several High Courts of this country have extended the same principle also in the matters coming within the boundaries of CPC.

The admissibility relating to the documents or the relevance of the document where the Court found itself difficult to take up at the threshold shall leave the parties to urge the respective merits of their
contentions at a later stage, which cannot cause any prejudice to either party. This is not a fit case where the extraordinary jurisdiction under Article 227 of the Constitution is called for. The order of the Court
below is confirmed and the civil revision petition is dismissed.

(K .KANNAN)
JUDGE

GURU NANAK KHALSA COLLEGE Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANOTHER

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.W.P. No. 5765 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION: April 17, 2009

Guru Nanak Khalsa College .........PETITIONER(S)
VERSUS
Panjab University and Another ......RESPONDENT(S)

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE AJAI LAMBA

Present:
Mr. J.S. Toor, Advocate, for the petitioner.

AJAI LAMBA, J. (ORAL)
Learned counsel wants to withdraw the petition.

Dismissed as withdrawn.

(AJAI LAMBA)
JUDGE

MRS AMARJIT RANGI Vs REGISTRAR PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.W.P. No.5019 of 2009

DATE OF DECISION: MARCH 30, 2009

Mrs. Amarjit Rangi .....PETITIONER
Versus
Registrar, Panjab University, Chandigarh ....RESPONDENT

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL

Present:
Mr.Manohar Lall, Advocate,
for the petitioner.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL, J. (Oral)
After arguing for some time, counsel for the petitioner wants to withdraw this petition to await the decision of the University.

Dismissed as withdrawn.

(SATISH KUMAR MITTAL)
JUDGE

PRABHJOT SINGH Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.W.P. No. 19486 of 2008

Decided on : 10-03-2009

Prabhjot Singh ....Petitioner
VERSUS
Panjab University and others ....Respondents

CORAM:-
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE AJAI LAMBA.

Present:-
Mr. G.S. Sandhu, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. Ashish Rawal, Advocate for respondent No.1.

AJAI LAMBA, J
Learned counsel for the petitioner has not been able to dispute the legal position that the petitioner is not entitled to any more condonation of lectures, even after the respondents have exercised their discretion of condoning 50 lectures.

In the above given set of circumstances, learned counsel for the petitioner states that the petitioner is a studious student and has fared well in the examinations taken by him in Ist Semester and
therefore, a lenient view ought to be taken by this Court.

I have considered the contention.

From para 5 of the written statement, it transpires that the claim of the petitioner that he has an outstanding academic record, is not made out. In M.B.A., 1st Semester, the petitioner got reappear in the subject 'Economics for Management' (M.B.A. 501).

The petitioner could pass another subject 'Quantitative Methods and Management Techniques' (MBA 502) only after getting one grace mark.

Learned counsel for the petitioner has not been able to draw the attention of the Court towards any rule or regulation which would entitle the petitioner to condonation of shortage in lectures.

Considering what has been stated in the written statement, I am of the opinion that the bona fide endeavour of the petitioner to pursue academic career is in doubt and the petitioner is not entitled to relief in extraordinary writ jurisdiction.

Petition is accordingly dismissed.

(Ajai Lamba)
Judge

ABHISHEK PURI and ORS Vs U T CHANDIGARH and ORS

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Crl. Misc. No. M- 33338 of 2008

Date of Decision:- 6.3.2009

Abhishek Puri and Ors. Versus U.T. Chandigarh and Ors.

Crl. Misc. No. M- 33336 of 2008

Date of Decision:- 6.3.2009

Gurpartap Singh Mann and Ors. Versus U.T. Chandigarh and Ors.

Present:-
Ashwani Verma, Advocate, for the petitioner in
(Crl. Misc. No. M- 33338 of 2008)
Mr.Sanjiv Sheroran, Advocate, for the petitioner in
(Crl. Misc. No. M- 33336 of 2008)
Mr. P.K.Khindria, Advocate, for U.T., Chandigarh.
Mr. Sanjiv Sheoran, Advocate, for respondents No. 2 to 6.
(Crl. Misc. No. M- 33336 of 2008)
Mr. Ashwani Verma, Advocate, for respondent No. 6.

M.M.S.BEDI. (J) (Oral)
This order will dispose of two petitions, one is Crl. Misc. No. 33338- M of 2008 for quashing of FIR No. 248, dated 2.8.2007, under Sections 147, 149, 323, 506 IPC, registered at Police Station Sector -11, Chandigarh and another is Crl. Misc. No. 33336-M of 2008 for quashing of FIR No. 249, dated 2.8.2007, under Sections 147, 149, 323 and 506 IPC, registered at Police Station Sector -11, Chandigarh, on the basis of compromise. Former FIR was registerd at the instance of respondent No. 2 Nitin Rathee, alleging that petitioners had assaulted him and otherrespondents.

Later FIR was registered against Gurpartap Singh Mann and others on the complaint of Tejpal Cheema alleging that he along with other respondents were attacked by the petitioners on 2.8.2007.

Petitioners, complainants and all the injured are present in Court.

They have stated that the matter has been compromsied vide compromise
Annexure P-2 dated 3.8.2007.

A perusal of the FIR in both the cases indicate that the parties were students at the time of the incident and the dispute had arisen during the election days of Students Council in Panjab University. Parties are present in Court and also have given oral undertaking not to repeat the similar incident in the Panjab University campus.

In view of the judgment of Kulwinder Singh and Ors VS. State of Punjab, 2007(3)RCR (Crl) 1052, the FIR can be quashed on the basis of compromise.

Taking into consideration, the above circumstances, I do not find any reason not to quash the above FIR especially when both the parties were
students at the time of the occurrence and that both the parties by appearing in Court have undertaken not to commit the similar offence of which they are accused of in the criminal cases mentioned above.

Accordingly, the petitions are allowed. FIR No. 248, dated 2.8.2007, FIR No. 249, dated 2.8.2009 and all the criminal proceedings emanating therefrom are hereby quashed on the basis of compromise.

(M.M.S.Bedi)
Judge

LAJWANT SINGH VIRK AND ANOTHER Vs THE PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND OTHERS CWP18795 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH.

DATE OF DECISION : 03.11.2008

Lajwant Singh Virk and another .... PETITIONERS
Versus
The and others ..... RESPONDENTS

CORAM :-
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE JASWANT SINGH

Present:
Mr. Naresh K. Joshi and Mr. Simranjit Singh, Advocates, for the petitioners.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL , J. ( Oral )
The petitioners have filed an election petition under Rule 19.1 of the Chapter II (B) pertaining to Election of Ordinary Fellows in Panjab University Calendar Volume-I 2005, challenging the election of respondents
No.3 to 17 as Member, Senate, Panjab University. The said petition was to be filed within 10 days of the declaration of the result and it has been filed within limitation on 6.10.2008. It is the case of the petitioners that the said election petition is not being decided expeditiously.

After hearing counsel for the petitioners and going through the contents of the petition, without issuing notice of motion, as it will unnecessary delay the matter, we dispose of this writ petition with a direction to the respondents to decide the said election petition of the petitioners in accordance with law, expeditiously.

( SATISH KUMAR MITTAL )
JUDGE

( JASWANT SINGH )
JUDGE

DR M L SHARMA AND OTHERS Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 17379 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

Dr. M.L. Sharma and others ...Petitioners
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. Rajiv Atma Ram, Senior Advocate with
Mr. BNS Sharma, Advocate, for the petitioners.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Gurpreet Singh and
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocates, for Union of India.
Mr. N.R. Dahiya, Advocate, for UGC.

Rajan Gupta, J.
For the detailed reasons mentioned in our judgment of even
date in CWP No.8025 of 2007 titled Dr. A.C. Julka and others Vs. Panjab University and others, this writ petition stands dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

S P KAPILA AND OTHERS Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 19164 of 2003

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

S.P. Kapila and others ...Petitioners
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. Munish Kapila, Advocate, with
Mr. D.S. Patwalia, Advocate, for the petitioners.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Gurpreet Singh and
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocates, for Union of India.

Rajan Gupta, J.
For the detailed reasons mentioned in our judgment of even
date in CWP No.8025 of 2007 titled Dr. A.C. Julka and others Vs. Panjab University and others, this writ petition stands dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

K K SHARMA AND OTHERS Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 6580 of 2003

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

K.K. Sharma and others ...Petitioners
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. Munish Kapila, Advocate and
Mr. D.S. Patwalia, Advocate, for the petitioners.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Gurpreet Singh and
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocates, for Union of India.

Rajan Gupta, J.
For the detailed reasons mentioned in our judgment of even
date in CWP No.8025 of 2007 titled Dr. A.C. Julka and others Vs. Panjab University and others, this writ petition stands dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

DR C L NARANG Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 17498 of 2002

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

Dr. C.L. Narang ...Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. N.P. Mittal, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Gurpreet Singh and
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocates, for Union of India.

Rajan Gupta, J.
For the detailed reasons mentioned in our judgment of even
date in CWP No.8025 of 2007 titled Dr. A.C. Julka and others Vs. Panjab University and others, this writ petition stands dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

D S BEDI AND OTHERS Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 19701 of 1998

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

D.S. Bedi and others ...Petitioners
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. D.S. Nalwa, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Gurpreet Singh and
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocates, for Union of India.

Rajan Gupta, J.
For the detailed reasons mentioned in our judgment of even
date in CWP No.8025 of 2007 titled Dr. A.C. Julka and others Vs. Panjab University and others, this writ petition stands dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

DR BASA NT KUMAR Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 1411 of 2006

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

Dr. Basant Kumar Sharma ...Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. S.D. Bansal, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Gurpreet Singh and
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocates, for Union of India.

Rajan Gupta, J.
For the detailed reasons mentioned in our judgment of even
date in CWP No.8025 of 2007 titled Dr. A.C. Julka and others Vs. Panjab University and others, this writ petition stands dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

DR A C JULKA and OTHERS Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 8025 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

Dr. A.C. Julka and others ...Petitioners
Versus
Panjab Universityand others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. Rajiv Atma Ram, Senior Advocate, with
Ms. Sunita Chauhan, Advocate and
Mr. G.S. Mann, Advocate, for the petitioners.
Mr. R.L. Batta, Senior Advocate with
Mr. Parveen Moudgil, Advocate,
Mr. A.K. Chopra, Senior Advocate with
Mr. Ashish Chopra, Advocate,
Mr. S.D. Sharma, Senior Advocate with
Ms. Bindu Goyal, Advocate,
Mr. Puneet Bali, Advocate,
Mr. Sudarshan Goel, Advocate,
Mr. D.S. Patwalia, Advocate,
Mr. TPS Chawla, Advocate,
Mr. S.D. Bansal, Advocate,
Mr. N.P. Mittal, Advocate,
Mr. M.L. Puri, Advocate,
Mr. P.S. Bhangu, Advocate,
Mr. D.S. Nalwa, Advocate,
Mr. B.S. Walia, Advocate,
Mr. Munish Kapila, Advocate,
Mr. BNS Sharma, Advocate,
Mr. Aman Chaudhary, Advocate,
Ms. Anu Chatrath, Advocate,
Mr. Akshay Bhan, Advocate,
Mr. O.P. Kamboj, Advocate,
Mr. Sunil Chadha, Advocate,
Mr. Ashish Aggarwal, Advocate,
Mr. Vishal Sharma, Advocate,
Mr. Sanjay Tangri, Advocate,
Mr. H.R. Mittal, Advocate,
Ms. Balwinder Kaur, Advocate,
Mr. Rakesh Gupta, Advocate,
Mr. Arun Aggarwal, Advocate, for the petitioners.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocate, Senior Central Government Standing Counsel and
Mr. Gurpreet Singh, Central Government Counsel for Union of India.
Mr. N.R. Dahiya, Advocate for UGC.
Mr. Rajiv Anand, Advocate for intervener.

Rajan Gupta, J.
This judgment will dispose of 72 writ petitions, i.e., CWP Nos. 8025 of 2007, 11949 and 19701 of 1998, 284, 934, 1043, 9217, 9765 and 17760 of 1999, 1907, 2170, 9692, 10864 and 10869 of 2000, 11465, 11712, 16962 and 17498 of 2002, 1720, 4000, 6580, 14759, 18007 and 19164 of 2003, 531, 1708, 3226, 8581, 11372, 14471 and 18980 of 2004, 1332, 4914, 8170, 9821, 13639 and 17234 of 2005, 1411, 7429, 10722,
12774, 13037, 15650, 16767 and 20096 of 2006, 2900, 4860, 7689, 12968, 13779, 15983, 17379, 17473, 19004, 19005 and 19111 of 2007, 3084, 4926, 5272, 6817, 7093, 7101, 7851, 13099, 13104, 13260, 15367, 15376, 16381, 17023, 17235 and 18589 of 2008. In these writ petitions, common question of increase in age of superannuation from 60 to 62 years and 62 to 65 years is involved. Since in all the writ petitions, the petitioners pray for the same relief, they are being disposed of by this common judgment.

However, facts are being taken from CWP No.8025 of 2007 for the purpose of deciding the issue in hand.

The petitioners are serving in the Panjab University as Readers, Lecturers, Professors etc. Certain other petitioners are from the non-teaching faculty. However, all the petitioners have invoked the writ jurisdiction of this Court for increase in age of superannuation in terms of UGC recommendations and in terms of a Government of India, Ministry of Human Resource Development letter dated 27th July, 1998 and another letter from the same Ministry dated 6th November, 1998 wherein increase in age of superannuation of non-teaching staff has been recommended. The petitioners are aggrieved by the decision dated July 23, 2002, whereby proposal for increase in the age of superannuation was rejected by the Government of India observing that 40% of the financial burden/deficit arising as a result of increase in age in superannuation had to be borne by the Punjab Government and Punjab Government having already refused to bear the burden, Government of India was not in a position to agree to the proposal. It is this letter, Annexure P-13 which has been impugned by the petitioners.

We have heard learned counsel for the parties at length.

Mr. Rajiv Atma Ram, learned counsel for the petitioners has drawn our attention to the letter dated 27th July, 1998, Annexure P-1A and to para (vi) thereof wherein the age of superannuation of University teachers has been recommended as 62 years. It is contended that the said letter has been issued by the Ministry of Human Resource
Development and a copy has been sent to Vice Chancellors of all the Central Universities for implementation. He has further drawn our attention to letter dated 6th November, 1998, which is in continuation of the letter dated 27th July, 1998 in which the Ministry of Human Resource Development has recommended age of superannuation of non-teaching staff such as Registrars, Librarians, Physical Education Personnel, Controller of Examinations, Finance Officers and such other
university employees who are treated at par with the teachers, to be 62 years rather than 60. Another letter which has been referred to, is a letter dated 24th December, 1998 by University Grants Commission addressed to the Vice Chancellors of all the Universities and Education Secretaries. Para 16.1.0 thereof prescribes the retirement age of teachers as 62 years. The counsel contends that recommendations of the UGC
were adopted by the university in meeting of its Syndicate on 10.1.1999 and it was observed that recommendations contained in letter dated 24th December, 1998 be adopted. A resolution in this respect was also passed. Thereafter, the matter was again considered by the Syndicate of the University on 19.2.1999 and it was resolved to implement UGC letter No. F-3-1/94 (PS) dated 24th December, 1998. The counsel has referred to the operative part of the said resolution which reads thus:

After discussion, it was decided that the decision of the Syndicate under Para 2 (i) (arising out of) at page 17 of the proceedings be mentioned as under:-

RESOLVED: That the U.G.C. Letter No.F.3-1/94 (PS) dated 24th December, 1998 be adopted in toto:

RESOLVED FURTHER; That steps be taken to change the conditions of service of teachers by amending rules and regulations of the University and put before the next meeting of the Senate, so that the age of retirement becomes 62.

RESOLVED FURTHER; That in the interregnum and in view of the interim direction granted to similarly placed persons by the High Court, as also in view of the proposal being sent to the Senate for increase in age of retirement from 60 to 62 years, persons retiring during this period be permitted to continue at their own risk and responsibility subject to decision of the Senate and in anticipation of the approval of the Senate. Persons so retired after the age of 62 years shall not get the benefit of reemployment.

Thereafter, the matter was placed before the Senate of the University on 28th March, 1999 and it was resolved that steps be taken to change the condition of service of teachers by amending Regulations of the University and Colleges so that age of retirement becomes 62 years. Thus, the Senate passed the resolution more or less in the same terms as the decision of the Syndicate. It has been further contended that the Regulation Committee in its meetings held on 7th, 14th and 15th September, 1999, recommended amendment of Regulation 17.3 and resolved that w.e.f. 6th November, 1998, the age of retirement of the teachers would be 62 instead of 60 years. The matter was thereafter approved by the Syndicate also in its meeting held on 18.9.1999. The recommendation of the Regulation Committee to amend Regulation
17.3 was accepted by the Syndicate. A meeting of the Senate was held thereafter on 18th October, 1999. Learned counsel has drawn our attention particularly to the relevant extract of the said Senate meeting.

It reads thus:

XX. The recommendation of the Syndicate contained in item 21 of the agenda was read out, viz:

4. Amendment of Regulation 17.3 of Chapter VI (A) relating to conditions of Service of University Employees at Page 149 of PU Calendar, Volume 1, 1994.

RESOLVED; That the above amendments, additions and deletions of the Regulations contained in letter No.S.T.8565-8654 dated 4.10.1999, be approved.

The matter was thereafter referred to the Government of India for approval. The Panjab University Teachers Association sent representation dated 7.5.2001, Annexure P-7 requesting therein that necessary approval be granted by the Government of India for enhancing the age of retirement of the University Teachers from 60 to 62 years. It was stated inter alia in the said letter that the Panjab University was not a State University and was an Inter-State Body Corporate in terms of Punjab Reorganization Act, 1966 (hereinafter referred to be as the Reorganization Act) and thus, necessary approval be granted by the Government of India for enhancing the age of retirement. A reference was also made to the interim orders passed by this court directing the university not to retire the teachers at the age of 60 years.

The counsel has, however, contended that the proposal was ultimately rejected by the Government of India vide letter dated July 23, 2002, annexed as Annexure P-13 to the writ petition. This letter is subject matter of challenge in the present writ petitions.

Learned counsel has also referred to certain communications dated 12.6.2008, 25.6.2008 and 26.8.2008, annexed as Annexures A1, A2 and A3 respectively with the writ petition to contend that the Panjab University was funded to the extent of 60% by the Central Government and in view of the Reorganization Act, it was to be treated as creation of a Central Act. The counsel has further referred to the Panjab University Calendar Volume-I to contend that the Panjab University has to be treated as a
Central University and, therefore, the recommendations of the UGC are totally applicable to the Panjab University. A reference has been made to Section 2 (b) of the Panjab University Act (hereinafter referred to as the Act), which is reproduced in the aforesaid University Calendar. It has been contended that for the purposes of the Act, the Government means the Central Government as per Section 2 (b) thereof.

Sections 4, 5, 6 and 8 have also been referred to to contend that the University is a
body corporate. In order to buttress the argument that the Panjab University is in the nature of Central University, Section 9 of the Act has been referred to which provides that the Chancellor of the University would be appointed by the Central Government by Notification in the Gazette of India. Section 31 (1) has also been referred to, to contend that the Senate is to make regulations with the sanction of the Government and Government in view of Section 2 (b) means the Central Government. The counsel has further relied on Section 33 dealing with power of the Government to require that
proceedings of the University would be in conformity with the Act and Government here means the Central Government in view of the definition contained in Section 2 (b). Particular emphasis has been laid by the counsel on Section 72 of the Reorganization Act. It has been contended that functioning and operation of the University would be governed by the Central Government after coming into force of the Reorganization Act. Not only this, in view of direct reference to Panjab University in Section 72 (4) of the said Act, there was no room for doubt that it was for the Central Government to decide how much grant would be met by the successor States to the Panjab University. According to the counsel, in view of these provisions it was clear that the Panjab University was a Central University for all intents and purposes and thus, U.G.C. Notification was clearly applicable to it and needs to be implemented in letter and spirit. It has been further contended that Chancellor of the University was the Vice President of India which further shows that the character of the University was that of a Central University. The counsel has also contended that in the absence of a clear definition of Central University, it had to be inferred from various provisions of the Act whether the character of Panjab University was that of a Central University or not. Ultimately, the counsel has contended that in view of Section 72 (4), Panjab University was definitely a centrally funded university as it was for the Centre to decide how much grant would be given by the successor State to the University. The counsel thus submits that the U.G.C. recommendation dated 24th December, 1998, Annexure P-3 as well as the Ministry of Human Resource Development letter dated 27th July, 1998, Annexure P-1A were clearly applicable to the Panjab University and the mandate contained therein needs to be implemented. The counsel attacked the
impugned decision of the Government of India, Annexure P-13 as against the Wednesbury principle as it had taken into consideration extraneous factors such as 40% financial burden in respect of Panjab University being met by the Punjab Government. According to the counsel, this could not be the basis for rejecting the proposal of the University Senate and Syndicate for enhancing the age of superannuation of the teachers from 60 to 62 years.

The counsel also referred to Entry 66 of the Union List i.e. List-I and Entry 25 of List-III to emphasize the primacy of the Central Legislation in respect of the matters falling within Entry 66 and any corresponding State Legislation. Thus, in view of the scheme of the U.G.C. and the mandate contained in the letter of the Government of India, Ministry of Human Resource Development, the age of superannuation was bound to be 62 instead of 60 years. According to the counsel, any directive to the contrary would have to be read as otiose.

Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, appearing for Panjab University, Chandigarh at the outset sought to rebut the contention of the learned counsel for the petitioners to the effect that the term Central University was not defined anywhere. He referred to the Article 371 (E) of the Constitution of India to state that setting up of a Central University in Andhra Pradesh was envisaged by the said Article.

According to Mr. Gupta, apart from reference in the Constitution to the term Central University, there could be no dispute with the proposition that Central University is a university created by a Central Act or an Act of the Parliament. He referred to Section 3 (7) of the General Clauses Act to contend that the term Central Act was unanimous with the term Act of Parliament. The counsel contended that the General Clauses Act could be used for interpretation of the Constitution as well. For this purpose he referred to Article 367 (1) of the Constitution. The counsel took us through various legislations through which certain central universities were established. He
particularly referred to Vishva Bharti University at Shanti Niketan, Jamia Millia Islamia University, Assam University, Tezpur University, North Eastern Hill University and Nagaland University to cite certain examples of central universities created by virtue of central legislation.

Learned counsel drew our attention to Section 10 of (The) Visva-Bharti Act, 1951, which reads thus: 10. The Paridarsaka (Visitor),- The President of India shall be the Paridarsaka (visitor) of the University.

According to the counsel, in all central legislations creating central universities, the President of India is a visitor. Learned counsel also referred to the history of the creation of the Panjab University.

According to him, on enactment of the Panjab University Act, 1947, the East Panjab University Ordinance, 1947 was repealed whereafter the University has been governed by the said Act as amended from time to time. On creation of new States of Punjab, Haryana and Union Territory Chandigarh, the Panjab University acquired the status of Inter-State Body Corporate and continued to function and operate in those areas in respect of which it was functioning and operating immediately before the appointed day. However, it would not acquire the character of a central university.

According to the counsel the Reorganization statutes are referable to Articles 2, 3 and 4 of the Constitution and not to any particular entry of the 7th Schedule to the Constitution. He further contended that for removal of doubt Section 72 (3) clearly provides that the Section would apply to the Panjab University constituted under the
Panjab University Act, 1947. Thus, Panjab University would at best be an Inter-State Body Corporate and not a Central University by any interpretation or inference. The counsel also referred to Section 72 (4) of Reorganization Act and contended that the said provision was only for the purposes of giving effect to the provisions of Section 72. It has been laid down therein that successor State would make such grants as the Central Government may from time to time determine. The definition of successor State is contained in Section 2 (m) of the Reorganization Act. Thus, learned counsel emphasized that in view of Section 72, the Panjab University was an Inter-State Body Corporate and by no stretch of imagination could be termed as a Central University. The counsel heavily relied upon a full bench judgment of this Court reported as D.A.V. College Trust and Management Society and others Vs. The Panjab University Chandigarh and another, 1986 (1) S.L.R. 596, to contend that there is no provision in the Reorganization Act on the strength of which it can be said that the Panjab University had become an institution established by an Act of the Parliament after enactment of the said Act.

Another limb of argument of counsel for the University is that any recommendation of a body like UGC would not be ipso-facto applicable to an Inter-State Body Corporate like the Panjab University unless the same was incorporated in the Act in the shape of an amendment or an amendment in the relevant regulation. Thus, according to the counsel, it is Regulation 17.3 which provides the age of superannuation of the teachers in the university as 60 years. As amendment to the said Regulation had not been approved till date, the same could not have come into force. Any regulation framed by the Senate requires prior sanction of the Government for all matters relating to the University in view of Section 31 of the Panjab University Act and Government for this purpose means the Central Government.

However, vide Annexure P-13, the Central Government had refused to grant approval for amendment to Regulation 17.3 of Chapter 6-A relating to Condition Of Service of the university employees. Thus, despite resolutions passed by the Syndicate and the Senate adopting the UGC recommendations, the proposed increase in age could not come into force. In order to submit that approval of the Government was absolutely necessary for carrying out any amendment in the Regulations, the counsel reiterated the provisions of Section 31 of the Panjab University Act and also referred to Regulation 24 of Chapter II (A) (i) of Panjab University Calendar Volume I 2005 which deals with the Senate.

According to the counsel, Regulation 24 provides that the amendments and draft regulations as recommended by the Syndicate, shall be considered by the Senate. The decision of the Senate would, however, require sanction by the Government before publication in the Government Gazette.

On the question whether Panjab University was a centrally funded University, the counsel submitted that 40% of the grant being met by the Punjab Government, it could not be termed as a centrally funded University.

The counsel heavily relied upon two judgments of the apex court i.e. T.P. George and others Vs. State of Kerala and others, 1992 Supp (3) Supreme Court Cases 191 and B. Bharat Kumar and others Vs. Osmania University and others, (2007) 11 Supreme Court Cases 58 and contended that the matter in hand had been considered in the said judgments in detail. The plea that the recommendations of the U.G.C. were bound to be implemented, had been found to be untenable. The counsel further contended that no mandamus could be issued to make any amendment in any legislation. In support, the counsel relied upon judgments reported as Union of India Vs. Prakash P. Hinduja and another, (2003) 6 Supreme Court Cases 195 and Suresh Seth Vs. Commr., Indore Municipal Corpn. and others, (2005) 13 Supreme Court Cases 287.

Reference was also made to a Division Bench Judgment of this Court delivered in CWP No.17915 of 1999 decided on 11th January, 2000 wherein the question of increase in age of superannuation of teachers employed in the universities was involved. In the said decision, similar recommendation by the UGC for increase in age of superannuation came up for consideration. However, the plea was dismissed by the Division Bench by a detailed judgment.

We have given careful thought to rival contentions of the counsel for the parties.

First and foremost the question whether Panjab University is a Central University has fallen for consideration of this Court. We find it necessary here to refer to Section 72 of the Reorganization Act which particularly takes into account the status of the Panjab University.

The said Section reads thus:-

(B) Section 72 of the Punjab Reorganization Act, 1966.

72 (1) Save as otherwise expressly provided by the foregoing provision of this Part where any body corporate constituted under a Central Act,State Act or Provincial Act or has, by virtue of the provisions of Part II, become an Inter-State body corporate, then, the body corporate shall, on and from the appointed day, continue to function and operate in those areas in respect of which it was functioning and operating immediately before that day, subject to such directions as may, from time to time, be
issued by the Central Government, until other provision is made by law in respect of the said body corporate.

(2) Any direction issued by the Central Government under Sub-Section (1) in respect of any body corporate may include a direction that any law by which the said body corporate is governed shall, in its application to that body corporate, have effect, subject to such exceptions and modifications as may be specified in the direction.

(3) For the removal of doubt it is hereby declared that the provisions of this section shall apply also to the Panjab University constituted under the Panjab University Act, 1947, the Punjab Agricultural University constituted under the Punjab Agricultural University Act 1961, and the Board constituted under the provisions of Part III of the Sikh Gurdwaras Act, 1925.

(4) For the purpose of giving effect to the provision of this section in so far as it relates to the Panjab University and the Punjab Agricultural University referred to in Sub-Section (3) the successor States shall make such grants as the Central Government may, from time to time, by order, determine.

A careful reading of the above section shows that it was envisaged that a body corporate established under a Central Act, State Act or Provincial Act would become an Inter-State Body Corporate on and from the date of enactment of the Act and it would continue to function in those areas as it was functioning and operating immediately before commencement of the Act. In the instant case Panjab University,
which was a creation of the State Act, namely, Panjab University Act, 1947, would be squarely governed by Section 72 (1) of the Reorganization Act, 1966, and therefore, would be an Inter-State Body Corporate. Section 72 (3) further alleviates any doubt in this respect by declaring that provisions of this Section would apply to Panjab University constituted under the Panjab University Act, 1947. Sub Section 4 of the above Section only gives a power to the Central Government to determine the grant to be met by the successor States in respect of Panjab University. However, merely the fact that this power has been granted to the Central Government, would not lead to an
inference that the Panjab University is a Central University. We are not impressed by the argument of the counsel for the petitioners that since Sub Section 2 (b) of the Panjab University Act provides that the appropriate Government for the purposes of the Act, would be Central Government, Panjab University should be deemed to be a Central University. Merely because the appropriate Government for the purposes of the Panjab University Act is Central Government and the approval of the Government is required for carrying out various functions of the University, would not, in our view, lead to a conclusion that Panjab University is a Central University. Section 72, leaves no room for doubt that Panjab University which was originally a creation of Panjab University Act, 1947, on enactment of the Reorganization Act, would become an Inter-State Body Corporate. Section 72 (4) further lays down that for the purpose of giving effect to provisions of the Section in so far as they relate to Panjab University, the successor States would make such grant as the Central Government may from time to time determine. The term successor State has been defined in Section 2 (m) of the Reorganization Act, 1966 which reads thus:-

(m) successor State, in relation to the existing State of Punjab, means the State of Punjab or Haryana, and includes also the Union in relation to the Union territory of
Chandigarh and the transferred territory;

Thus, in view of Section 72 (4), the successor States continued to have a role to play in respect of Panjab University. Even grant to the extent of 40% is met by the Punjab Government, which is a substantial share. It is, thus, clear that merely because appropriate government for the purposes of the Panjab University Act is Central
Government and as approval of the Government is required for carrying out amendments to regulations of the University and for certain administrative purposes, it cannot be held that Punjab University is a Central University. It is not possible for this court to draw such an inference by reading into Panjab University Act what it does not intend.

The provisions of the Reorganization Act have to be essentially kept in view while dealing with this question. Section 72 leaves no room for doubt that the Panjab University can at best be termed as an Inter-State Body Corporate. This precise question had arisen earlier before this court in D.A.V. Colleges case (supra), wherein this court held as under:-

........It is true that because of the operation of section 72 of the Punjab Re-organization Act, 1966, the Panjab University has become an inter-State Body Corporate and the Central Government has been issuing directions which had the effect of modifying the Panjab University Act, 1947, passed by the Punjab Legislature. It is also correct that after 1966, the Regulations framed by the Senate the Panjab University become law only after receiving the approval and sanction of the Central Government, nevertheless, the Panjab University remains a creature of the Panjab University Act. It was not set up under an Act of Parliament. There is no provision in the Punjab Reorganization Act on the strength of which it may be argued that after the Re-organization, the Panjab University has become an Institution established by an Act of Parliament.

By conferring powers on the Central Government to make suitable modifications in the existing statutes, the nature and complexion of the State Law has not changed.

The Senate of Panjab University still remains the only authority competent to frame Regulations. Simply because these regulations become law after they are sanctioned by the Central Government does not change their authorship or nature; they still remain regulations framed by the Panjab University. The position is somewhat-akin to the Acts passed by various State Legislatures which in order to meet certain requirements of various provisions of the Constitution are reserved for the approval and assent of the President of India. After receiving such assent, such Acts continue to be State Acts. They do not partake the character of Acts of Parliament or Central Legislation by the Union of India........

It is thus clear that Panjab University cannot be termed as Central University. In fact, on the date of conclusion of arguments in this case, an affidavit dated 31.10.2008 was filed in this court on behalf of Union of India by Upamanyu Basu, Director Ministry of Human Resource Development (Department of Higher Education), New Delhi,
wherein it was stated as under:-

4. In the meeting chaired by the Home Secretary, Government of India on 24/10/2008, and attended by Secretaries of the Departments of Expenditure (Ministry of Finance), Education (Ministry of Human Resource Development), Legal Affairs (Ministry of Law and Justice), officers of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Secretary Department of Higher Education, Government of Punjab, Home Secretary, UT of Chandigarh, Finance
Secretary UT of Chandigarh and Vice Chancellor Panjab University, the deliberations have amply clarified that the Panjab University does not come under the category of Central University/Centrally Funded Institution. It can only be termed as an Inter-State University, where the only other State now involved was the Union Territory of Chandigarh. Further, as regards the funding of the Panjab University, being an Interstate University, Central Government stepped in on behalf of successor states to share the funding responsibilities along with Punjab University.

Thus, it is clear that the Union of India also took a clear stand before this court that Panjab University cannot be termed as a Central University or centrally funded Institution. Even otherwise, as discussed above, it is not possible to hold otherwise as interpretation of Section 72 of the Reorganization Act clearly leads to the same conclusion. Most of the instances of central universities cited before us such as Shanti Niketan, Jamia Millia Islamia etc. show that same are creation of central legislation. However, Panjab University is originally a creation of Panjab University Act, 1947. We thus hold that Panjab University after enactment of Reorganization Act acquired the character of an Inter-State Body Corporate and cannot be termed as a Central University. Thus the contention that Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India letter dated 27th July, 1998, Annexure P-1A, is applicable to Panjab University being Central University, is devoid of force and is rejected.

We may here briefly deal with the argument regarding the Panjab University being a centrally funded Institution. In this context, it has come on record that in respect of Panjab University, 40% of the grant is met by the State of Punjab. The Central Government provides funding to the extent of 60% through the Union Territory. According to the affidavit filed by the Union of India before this court, operative para
whereof has been reproduced above, the Central Government only stepped in on behalf of the successor States to share the funding responsibilities. The term Successor State as defined in Section 2 (m) of the Reorganization Act in relation to State of Punjab means State of Punjab or Haryana and includes the Union in relation to the Union Territory of Chandigarh. At present the State of Punjab is meeting the
funding requirements of the Panjab University to the extent of 40% and the Union to the extent of 60%. It is nobodys case before this court that financial burden in respect of Panjab University is being borne exclusively by the Central Government. No other definition of the term centrally funded Institution has been shown to us. In this background, it is not possible to hold that the Panjab University is a centrally funded University. The argument that Panjab University was a centrally funded University, was pressed into service only to seek implementation of the UGC recommendations to enhance the age of retirement in respect of Central Universities and centrally funded Institutions. However, we are of the view that Panjab University cannot be termed as a centrally funded Institution as the U.T. Chandigarh through Union is meeting 60% of its expenditure and rest 40% burden is being borne by the State of Punjab. This fact was taken into account by the Government of India while the impugned letter, Annexure P-13 was issued. While rejecting the proposal for enhancement in age from 60 to 62 years in view of the UGC recommendations, it was observed in the letter Annexure P-13 as under:-

We have examined the above proposal in consultation with UGC and Govt. of Punjab.

The proposals have been rejected by the Govt. of Punjab in totality. Given the fact that 40% of the financial burden/deficit arising as a result of approval of the above proposal is to be borne by the Punjab Government, Government of India is not in a
position to agree to above proposals.

The next question which arises before this court is whether the Government of India letter dated 27th July, 1998, Annexure P-1A, letter dated 6th November, 1998, Annexure P-2 and the UGC Circular dated 24th December, 1998, Annexure P-3, need to be implemented being binding in nature. While dealing with the question of
implementation of these letters/circular, we feel the necessity of examining whether any such recommendation would have effect without the same being incorporated in the statutes governing the University. In respect of Panjab University, there is a particular regulation which prescribes the age of superannuation of the teaching staff as 60 years.

Regulation 17.3 of Chapter VI (A) of the Conditions of Service of University Employees reads thus:

17.3. All whole-time members of the teaching staff, as defined in Regulation 1.1 of Chaptger V (A), shall retire on attaining the age of 60 years and no extension in service shall be granted.

The above regulation has been framed in exercise of power under Section 31 (2) (e) of the Panjab University Act, 1947. It is evident that unless Regulation 17.3 is amended and age of superannuation therein is prescribed as 62 years, the UGC
recommendations would have no effect and the teaching staff will continue to retire at the age of 60 years. It appears that at various stages, the matter was considered by the Syndicate and the Senate of the University. Certain resolutions were also passed for enhancing the age of retirement from 60 to 62 years and for amending Regulation 17.3 accordingly. The said resolutions have been reproduced in the foregoing paras while noticing the submissions of counsel for the petitioners. However, it is obvious that these resolutions passed by the Senate and Syndicate of the University, did not get the approval of the Government of India and thus never came into effect. There is no doubt in our mind that for a resolution to take effect and to become a part of the regulation, it is necessary that sanction of the Government is obtained. In this respect Section 31 (1) of the Panjab University Act is relevant which reads thus:

31. Regulations:

(1) The Senate, with the sanction of the Government may, from time to time, make regulations consistent with this Act to provide for all matters relating to the
University.

This Section makes it clear that sanction of the Government is required to make regulations in respect of matters pertaining to the University. The Government as defined in Section 2 (b) of the Act means the Central Government. However, in the instant case, the Central Government refused to accept the resolutions passed by the
Senate of the University as is evident from a reading of the impugned letter dated 23rd July, 2002, Annexure P-13. Therefore, the question of any amendment being carried out in Regulation 17.3 did not arise. The regulation as it stands on date on the statute-book of the University provides the age to be 60 years and the same would continue to be so unless the regulation is amended. An incidental question which arises is whether a mandamus can be issued by this court directing the Government and the University to amend the relevant statute for increasing the age of superannuation of the University teaching and non-teaching staff. In our view, carrying out an amendment to a statute is a legislative function and falls purely within the domain of the legislature.

In Prakash P. Hindujas case (supra), the Supreme Court observed as under:-

......30. Under our constitutional scheme Parliament exercises sovereign power to enact laws and no outside power or authority can issue a direction to enact a particular piece of legislation. In Supreme Court Employees Welfare Assn. v. Union of India SCC (para 51) it has been held that no court can direct a legislature to enact a particular law.

Similarly, when an executive authority exercises a legislative power by way of a subordinate legislation pursuant to the delegated authority of a legislature, such
executive authority cannot be asked to enact a law which it has been empowered to do under the delegated legislative authority.......

Even while dealing with the rule making power of the executive, the apex court in Mullikarjuna Rao and others v. State of A.P. And others, AIR 1990 SC 1251, reversed the direction given by the Central Administrative Tribunal for amendment of the rules and held as under:-

It is neither legal nor proper for the High Courts or the Administrative Tribunals to issue directions or advisory sermons to the executive in respect of the sphere which is
exclusively within the domain of the executive under the Constitution. The power under Art. 309 of the Constitution to frame rules is the legislative power. This power under the Constitution has to be exercised by the President or the Governor of a State as the case may be. The High Courts or the Administrative Tribunals cannot issue a mandate to the State Government to legislate under Art. 309 of the Constitution. The Courts cannot usurp the functions assigned to the executive under the constitution and cannot even indirectly require the executive to exercise its rulemaking
power in any manner. The Courts cannot assume to itself a supervisory role over the rule-making power of the executive under Art. 309 of the Constitution.

Similar was the view taken by the apex court in Suresh Seths case (supra), wherein it was held as under:-

5. Learned counsel for the appellant has also submitted that this Court should issue directions for an appropriate amendment in the M.P. Municipal Corporation
Act, 1956 so that a person may be debarred from simultaneously holding two elected offices, namely, that of a member of the Legislative Assembly and also of Mayor of a Municipal Corporation. In our opinion, this is a matter of policy for the elected representatives of people to decide and no direction in this regard can be issued by the Court.

That apart this Court cannot issue any direction to the legislature to make any particular kind of enactment.

Under our constitutional scheme Parliament and Legislative Assemblies exercise sovereign power to enact laws and no outside power or authority can issue a direction to enact a particular piece of legislation. In Supreme Court Employees Welfare Assn. v. Union of India (SCC para 51) it has been held that no court can direct a legislature to enact a particular law. Similarly, when an executive authority exercises a legislative power by way of a subordinate legislation pursuant to the delegated authority of a legislature, such executive authority cannot be asked to enact a law which it has been empowered to do under the delegated legislative authority......

We are thus of the considered view that no mandamus can be issued by this court to carry out necessary amendment in Regulation 17.3 which prescribes the age of the superannuation of the teachers of the Panjab University as 60 years.

As regards submission of the counsel for the petitioners in respect of Entry 66 in List-I and Entry 25 in List-III, we do not feel the necessity to go into that question as we are not dealing with any legislation in respect of age of superannuation. It is nobodys case before us that the UGC recommendations contained in Circular dated
24th December, 1998 are in exercise of any statutory authority. During the course of argument, we put a pointed question to counsel for UGC whether circular issued by the UGC was in exercise of any statutory provision. The answer to this question was, however, in the negative.

Even the letters dated 27th July, 1998, Annexure P-1A issued by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India and letter dated 6th November, 1998, Annexure P-2, are merely communications and cannot be said to be of binding nature. The counsel for the UGC drew our attention to the original letter No.F.1- 22/97-U.I dated 27th July, 1998, sent by the Ministry of Human Resources Development, Government of India to the Education Secretaries of all States/Union Territories. He emphasized that the said letter had given an option to adopt and implement the scheme contained therein and was not binding in nature. It was not made mandatory by the Government of India to implement the scheme. We thus feel that it will not be necessary to examine the relevance of the letters Annexure P-1A dated 27.7.1998, Annexure P-2 dated 6.11.1998 and Circular issued by UGC dated 24th December, 1998, Annexure P-3 in the light of Entry 66 in List-I and Entry 25 in List-III, as these communications cannot be said to be legislative in nature or for that matter issued pursuant to any statutory provision. The communication No.F.1-22/97-
U.I. dated 27.7.1998 was examined by the apex court in B. Bharat Kumars case (supra) wherein the Supreme Court held as under:-

13. The situation is no different in the present case also. The very language of the letter dated 27.7.1998 suggests that the scheme is voluntary and not binding at all.
Further it is specified in the judgment of the Kerala High Court that the teachers had no right to claim a specific age because it suggested in the scheme which scheme was itself voluntary and not binding. The Court clearly observed that the appellant cannot claim that major portion of the scheme having been accepted by the Government, they have no right not to accept the clause relating to fixation of higher age of superannuation. The Court therein observed that it is a matter between the State Government on the one hand and the University Grants Commission on the other and it would be for the University Grants Commission to extend the benefit of the scheme or not to extend the same depending upon its satisfaction about the attitude taken by the State Government in the matter of implementing the scheme. It was lastly clearly observed that as long as the State Government has not accepted UGCs recommendations to fix the age of superannuation at 60 years, teachers cannot claim as a matter of right that they were entitled to retire on attaining the age of 60 years.

The court also referred to Entry 66 in List-I and Entry 25 in List-III and held as under:-

15. Once we take this view on the plain reading of the scheme, it would be necessary for us to take stock of the subsequent arguments of Mr. Rao regarding Entry 66 in List I vis-a-vis Entry 25 in List III. In our opinion, the communications, even if they could be heightened to the pedestal of a legislation, or as the case may be, a policy decision under Article 73 of the Constitution, they would have to be read as they appear and a plain reading is good enough to show that the Central Government or as the case may be UGC also did not introduce the element of compulsion vis-a-vis the State Government and the universities. We, therefore, do not find any justification in
going to the entries and in examining as to whether the scheme was binding, particularly when the specific words of the scheme did not suggest it to be binding and
specifically suggest it to be voluntary.

While delivering the aforesaid judgments, the apex court also examined the T.P. Georges case (supra), relied upon by the counsel for the University and approved the judgment delivered therein.

The last submission of counsel for the petitioners Mr. Atma Ram that the decision Annexure P-13 was against the Wednesbury principle as it had taken into consideration extraneous factors such as 40% financial burden in respect of Panjab University being met by Punjab Government, is also unacceptable. The fact that Punjab Government is sharing the financial burden in respect of Panjab University, is a matter of record. The Panjab University being an Inter- State Body Corporate, the Government of India rightly took into consideration the fact that Punjab Government, which is meeting the expenditure of University to the extent of 40%, had rejected the
proposal for increase in age of superannuation. We do not find that this was an extraneous factor which was taken into consideration by the Government of India while arriving at decision to reject the proposal for enhancement in age of superannuation. It is, therefore, not possible to hold that the decision Annexure P-13 suffers from Wednesbury unreasonableness. The said principle would be attracted only if the decision is so outrageous or defies logic that no sensible person could have arrived at such a decision. However, there is nothing in decision, Annexure P-13 which would lead to that conclusion. Thus, this argument does not find favour with this court.

Mr. Chopra, Senior Advocate while appearing for some of the petitioners made an impassioned plea towards the conclusion of arguments that teachers had acquired experience of several years and had become adept in their profession. The students will thus stand to loose as they will not be able to benefit from vast teaching experience of the teachers, if they are retired at the age of 60. We are unable to accept this submission of the learned counsel as this argument would be available even if a teacher is sought to be retired at the age of 62 years.

Thus, there would be no end if this line of reasoning is accepted. In our considered view, some age of superannuation has to be prescribed.

Undoubtedly, due to increase in life expectancy, the age of superannuation may change over a time. However, this is not a function of this court. In fact, it is outside its domain. It is a policy matter to be considered by the legislature or the executive keeping in view various factors such as increase in life expectancy, financial burden on the exchequer, need to infuse fresh blood in the teaching streams and other relevant issues. These issues, however, are within the purview of the policy framers and not this court.

We thus find ourselves unable to agree with the submissions of the petitioners and do not find it a fit case for quashing the order dated 23th July, 2002, Annexure P-13 or to issue a mandamus to direct the respondents to allow the petitioners to continue upto the age of 62 years, in view of the reasons enumerated in the foregoing paragraphs. For the same reasons, the plea of the non-teaching staff for enhancement in age of retirement is untenable and is rejected. The prayer in certain petitions for increasing the age of retirement from 62 to 65 years thus automatically goes.

All these writ petitions are, therefore, dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

PU Senate members nominated

PU Senate members nominated
Chandigarh, October 27 Members of the Panjab University Non-Teaching Employees Federation welcomed the nomination of the federation president in the university Senate.

This is the first time that a member of the federation has been nominated for the Senate.
The list of the nominated members was released on Sunday.

The members would be ordinary fellows of the Senate from November 1, 2008 to October 31, 2012.

The names include former principal of Sanskrit College, Hoshiarpur, Avtar Singh Bedi, Prof AK Jafri, Professor Emeritus, department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Prof BS Ghuman, Dean, Faculty of Arts, PU, Lt Gen BS Dhaliwal, Chaman Lal Sharma, advocate, Punjab and Haryana High Court, Prof Deepak Nayyar, Professor of Economics, JNU and former vice-chancellor, University of Delhi, Dr Emanual Nahar, Lecturer, department of Political Science, Dr Gurmeet Singh, lecturer in department of Hindi, PU, Dr GS Bhalla, Professor Emeritus, JNU, HK Dua, Editor of The Tribune, HS Lucky, president of Chandigarh Territorial Youth Congress, Dr Ishwar Dayal Gaur, Professor in the department of History, PU, I S Chadha, Dr KK Talwar, Director, PGI, Dr K S Aulakh, former vice-chancellor, Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana, Dr Madhu Prashar, principal of Dev Samaj College for Women, Ferozepur, Prof M Shakeel Ahmed, chairman, department of Urdu, PU, Prof Neera Chandhoke, department of Political Science, Delhi University, Dharam Paul Sharma, non-teaching staff representative, Prof Pam Rajput, former Head of department of Political Science and founder director, Centre for Women’s Studies, PU, president (Ex-Officio), Panjab University Teachers Association, Peter D’Souza, Director, IIAS, Shimla, Pawan Kumar Bansal, Union Minister of State for Finance, Dr Ravi Kumar Gupta, Reader, department of Orthopedics, Government Medical College and Hospital, Prof RP Bambah, Vice-Chairman, Governing Body, CRRID; Prof Radha Kumar, Director, Mandela Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Jamia Millia Islamia University, Raman Bahl, former president, Municipal Council, Gurdaspur, Dr Krishan Gauba, Director-Principal, Dr HSJ Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, PU, Prof Shelley Walia, Dean, International Students and Dean, Faculty of Languages, PU, Sada Nand, former chief secretary, Punjab, S K Sharma, Professor Emeritus, Energy Research Centre, PU, Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, MP, Ludhiana, Satya Pal Jain, former Member of Parliament, Dr SC Vaidya, Professor in Finance and Accounting, UBS, PU, Virainder Kumar Tiwari, principal of DAV College, Jalandhar, VK Sibal, senior advocate, Punjab and Haryana High Court.

PU Senate members nominated

Chandigarh, October 27 Members of the Panjab University Non-Teaching Employees Federation welcomed the nomination of the federation president in the university Senate.
This is the first time that a member of the federation has been nominated for the Senate.
The list of the nominated members was released on Sunday.

The members would be ordinary fellows of the Senate from November 1, 2008 to October 31, 2012.
The names include former principal of Sanskrit College, Hoshiarpur, Avtar Singh Bedi, Prof AK Jafri, Professor Emeritus, department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Prof BS Ghuman, Dean, Faculty of Arts, PU, Lt Gen BS Dhaliwal, Chaman Lal Sharma, advocate, Punjab and Haryana High Court, Prof Deepak Nayyar, Professor of Economics, JNU and former vice-chancellor, University of Delhi, Dr Emanual Nahar, Lecturer, department of Political Science, Dr Gurmeet Singh, lecturer in department of Hindi, PU, Dr GS Bhalla, Professor Emeritus, JNU, HK Dua, Editor of The Tribune, HS Lucky, president of Chandigarh Territorial Youth Congress, Dr Ishwar Dayal Gaur, Professor in the department of History, PU, I S Chadha, Dr KK Talwar, Director, PGI, Dr K S Aulakh, former vice-chancellor, Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana, Dr Madhu Prashar, principal of Dev Samaj College for Women, Ferozepur, Prof M Shakeel Ahmed, chairman, department of Urdu, PU, Prof Neera Chandhoke, department of Political Science, Delhi University, Dharam Paul Sharma, non-teaching staff representative, Prof Pam Rajput, former Head of department of Political Science and founder director, Centre for Womens Studies, PU, president (Ex-Officio), Panjab University Teachers Association, Peter DSouza, Director, IIAS, Shimla, Pawan Kumar Bansal, Union Minister of State for Finance, Dr Ravi Kumar Gupta, Reader, department of Orthopedics, Government Medical College and Hospital, Prof RP Bambah, Vice-Chairman, Governing Body, CRRID; Prof Radha Kumar, Director, Mandela Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Jamia Millia Islamia University, Raman Bahl, former president, Municipal Council, Gurdaspur, Dr Krishan Gauba, Director-Principal, Dr HSJ Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital, PU, Prof Shelley Walia, Dean, International Students and Dean, Faculty of Languages, PU, Sada Nand, former chief secretary, Punjab, S K Sharma, Professor Emeritus, Energy Research Centre, PU, Sharanjit Singh Dhillon, MP, Ludhiana, Satya Pal Jain, former Member of Parliament, Dr SC Vaidya, Professor in Finance and Accounting, UBS, PU, Virainder Kumar Tiwari, principal of DAV College, Jalandhar, VK Sibal, senior advocate, Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Ranjit Singh versus Panjab University Chandigarh

STATE INFORMATION COMMISSION, PUNJAB
SCO No. 84-85, Sector 17-C, CHANDIGARH.
Er. Ranjit Singh, S/o Sh. Gurdial Singh
Old Cantt Road
Near Octroi No.-7, Faridkot
......Complainant
Vs.
Public Information Officer,
O/o Babe Ke College of Education
Mudki, Distt.- Ferozepur.
&
Public Information Officer,
Punjab University,
Chandigarh.
.....Respondent.
CC No-1080-of 2008:

Present:
Er. Ranjit Singh, Complainant in person.
Dr. Ram Mohan Tripathi, Principal, college of Babe Ke College, Mudki.

Order:

In compliance with orders of the Commission dated 26.08.2008 para 4 thereof Principal who is present in the Commission today has not filed any affidavit in support of his plea that the college does not fall within the definition provided in 2(h) of RTI Act, 2005, defining “Public Authority”, he has requested some more time for this. However, the Principal has stated that as required in para 6 of the order dated 26.08.2008 of the Commission, the PIO/Punjab University, Chandigarh had issued letter dated 13.10.2008 to him containing the order of the Commission for necessary action at his end. According to him, he has addressed the Registrar, Punjab University vide letter no. BKCE/M/554 dated 21.10.2008 and supplied him para wise reply along with annexures where necessary with respect to the RTI application made by Er. Ranjit Singh. This information has been supplied to the University against due receipt. Separately vide covering letter dated nil, the Deputy Registrar (College) and PIO/Punjab University, Chandigarh has sent a letter dated 21.10.2008 containing the said letter of the Principal along with annexures as detailed in the Principal’s letter.

CC No-1080-of 2008

Although the said letter is stated to have been sent to the Complainant Er. Ranjit Singh says that he has not received the same. Er. Ranjit Singh who states that he has not received the same has been permitted to take copy of the same and he states that he is not satisfied with the information and that it is incomplete.

2. The PIO/Baba Ke College of Education has requested for time for giving necessary affidavit, which is granted.

Adjourned to 18.11.2008.

Sd/-
(Mrs. Rupan Deol Bajaj)
State Information Commissioner
22.10.2008
(LS)

MS CHANDNI PABBY Vs THE PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND OTHERS CWP 14355 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision: 01-10-2008

Ms. Chandni Pabby ....Petitioner
Versus
The Panjab University and others .....Respondents

Coram:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE HEMANT GUPTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA

Present:
Shri Dinesh Kumar, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Shri Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for the respondents.

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

HEMANT GUPTA, J.
The petitioner, an Indian National, who has been granted Permanent Resident Card by the United States of America, has sought admission against the seats reserved for the Non Resident Indians ( for short `NRI ) in the B.A.LL.B (Hons.) Five Year Integrated Course of
Panjab University.

The sole grievance of the petitioner is that in the Prospectus published, there was no condition that a candidate, who has studied in a country other than India for three years immediately preceding the year of admission, shall be treated to be an NRI. Therefore, such condition, which deprives the petitioner of her right to seek admission in the Course on the basis of her Permanent Resident Card, cannot be imposed after the publication of the Prospectus.

It is admitted by the learned counsel for the petitioner that in the prospectus, there was no definition as to who is an NRI. The Honble Supreme Court in P.A. Inamdar and others v. State of Maharashtra and others, (2005) 6 SCC 537 has upheld the right of admission to the NRIs, but has clarified that such seats should be utilized bona-fide by NRIs only and for their children or wards. The relevant extracts from the said judgment, read as under:-

131. Here itself we are inclined to deal with the question as to seats allocated for Non-Resident Indians (NRI for short) or NRI seats. It is common knowledge that some of the institutions grant admissions to certain number of students under such quota by charging a higher amount of fee. In fact, the term NRI in relation to admissions is a misnomer.

By and large, we have noticed in cases after cases coming to this Court, neither the students who get admissions under the category nor their parents are NRIs. In effect and reality, under this category, less meritorious students, but who can afford to bring more
money, get admission. During the course of hearing, it was pointed out that a limited number of such seats should be made available as the money brought by such students admitted against NRI quota enables the educational institutions to strengthen their level of
education and also to enlarge their educational activities. It was also pointed out that the people of Indian origin, who have migrated to other countries, have a desire to bring back their children to their own country as they not only get education, but also get reunited with the Indian cultural ethos by virtue of bring here. They also wish the money which they would be spending elsewhere on education of their children should rather reach their own motherland. A limited reservation of such seats, not exceeding 15% in our opinion, may be made available to NRIs, depending on the discretion of the management subject to two
conditions. First such seats should be utilized bonafide by NRIs only and for their children or wards.

In terms of the aforesaid judgment of the Honble Supreme Court as well as the clarification issued by the University so as to ensure that only the bona-fide NRIs get admission against the seats reserved for them, the action of the University cannot be said to be violative of the conditions of Prospectus.

This Court in Meenal Sharma v. State of Haryana, 1995(2) PLR 209 and the Honble Supreme Court in Nishant Puri v. State of H.P. and others, (1999)1 SCC 126, have upheld the condition imposed in somewhat similar circumstances to determine the bona-fide residence of the students to seek admission on the basis of residence. It was held that the condition of qualifying 10+1 and 10+2 examinations from an institution located in the State is justified, while granting admission to such students as residents of the said State.

In view of the above, we do not find any merit in the present writ petition. The same is hereby dismissed.

(HEMANT GUPTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

SUNITA RANI Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND OTHERS CWP 13951 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision: 12-09-2008

Sunita Rani ....Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and others .....Respondent

Coram:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE HEMANT GUPTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA

Present:
Shri J.S. Maanipur, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Shri Manish Bansal, Advocate, for the respondents.

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

HEMANT GUPTA, J.
The petitioner is a Scheduled Castes candidate having graduated from the Panjab University, as a private candidate, in the year 2006.

The respondent-University, issued Prospectus for admission in B.Ed. (Regular)-2008 for Colleges of Education, situated in Chandigarh. The petitioner applied for admission to such course under Union Territory Pool Category, considering herself to be eligible on the basis of her B.A. Qualification. On the basis of Entrance Test conducted on 6.7.2008, the petitioner was ranked 453.

It is the case of the petitioner that the candidates who are lower in merit have been admitted, whereas the petitioner has been denied admission and thus, aggrieved, she has invoked the writ jurisdiction of this Court. It is pointed out by the petitioner that in the
Prospectus, there are two sources for filling up the seats for admission.

One is 60% Union Territory Pool, which is meant for students who passed their qualifying examination from Colleges recognised by the Chandigarh Administration and situated in the Union Territory, Chandigarh, as a regular student of the said College/Institution. It is
further subject to the condition that such students must have studied for two years at Chandigarh and have passed one lower qualifying examination from the Colleges/Institutions situated in the Union Territory Chandigarh. All other students, who have not passed their qualifying examination from the Institutions located in Union Territory
Chandigarh, fall within 40% General Pool, which is the second source of admission. The relevant conditions contained in the Prospectus, read as under:-

1. Eligibility for Entrance Test

1.1. A. For admission to the Colleges of U.T. (Chandigarh) condition of residence is not
required.

B. U.T. Pool 60%: Out of the total sanctioned intake of the institution 60% seats will be filled up from amongst the students who passed their qualifying examination from colleges recognised by the Chandigarh Administration and situated in the Union Territory of Chandigarh as a regular student of the said College/Institution, subject to the condition that such students must have studied for two years at Chandigarh and have passed one lower qualifying examination from the colleges/institutions situated in the Union Territory of Chandigarh.

These seats will be termed as `UT Pool.

C. General Pool 40%: Out of the total sanctioned intake of the institutions 40% seats will be filed from amongst the students, who have passed their qualifying examination from the
institutions, other than those located in the Union Territory of Chandigarh or otherwise.

These seats will be termed as `General Pool.

Note:
(i) Candidates who have done Postgraduation from a college/institution situated in U.T. as regular students and graduation from outside U.T., will not be considered under the U.T. Pool.

(ii) Candidates who have done graduation from the Department of Correspondence Studies, Panjab University and are residing in Chandigarh will not be considered under the U.T. Pool. These candidates will be considered under the General Pool.

6. General Rules

Note:
i)x

ii) Candidates who wish to seek admission in the Colleges of Education situated at Chandigarh must clearly state whether they belong to U.T. Pool (the students who passed their qualifying examination from colleges recognised by the Chandigarh Administration and situated in the Union Territory of Chandigarh as regular students of the said college subject to the condition that such students must have studied for atleast two years at Chandigarh and have passed one qualifying examination from these colleges) or General Pool (the student who have passed their qualifying examination from the institutions other than those located in the Union Territory of Chandigarh or otherwise) and any Reserved categories, must clearly state the categories code in the appropriate column in the Form.

Learned counsel for the petitioner has argued that even if the petitioner is not eligible for the admission against U.T. Pool, the respondents are bound to consider the claim of the petitioner for admission against the General Pool.

It is contended that in the General Pool, a candidate, who is lower in merit has been admitted, therefore, the petitioner is entitled to be admitted in the General Pool. Learned counsel for the respondents has produced photocopy of the application form submitted by the petitioner. The petitioner has applied as a U.T. Pool candidate. She has also sought the benefit of reservation by filling in category code as 22 which is meant for a Scheduled Castes candidate.

Having heard learned counsel for the parties, we do not find any merit in the present writ petition. The admission process is divided into two vertical components; one is meant for U.T. Candidates called U.T. Pool and the other is for the General Pool. The petitioner has
applied in a U.T. Pool and also claimed reservation. The petitioner could be considered against the General Category candidates falling to U.T. Pool only. For consideration as a General Pool candidate, the petitioner has to apply as a candidate of the General Pool. It was not open to the petitioner to apply for one category and to seek admission in another.

There is no switching over of the Pools permissible in terms of the Rules.

Still further, the candidates, who have done graduation from Department of Correspondence Studies have been specifically excluded from consideration under the U.T. Pool. The petitioner having graduated as a private candidate, does not stand in any way on better position than the candidates, who have graduated from the Department of Correspondence Studies. Therefore, the petitioner could not be treated as a U.T. Pool
candidate nor in fact, any effort was made by the petitioner to assert that she was a U.T. Pool candidate.

We do not find any merit in the argument raised by the learned counsel for the petitioner that though the petitioner has applied as a U.T. Pool candidate, still she should be treated as a General Pool candidate. The principle propounded by the petitioner is applicable for
reservation meant for Scheduled Castes; Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes candidates. But, the admission against General Pool is separate source for admission, where there is separate reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes.

Therefore, the petitioner cannot be ordered to be shifted to General Pool. In view thereof, we do not find any merit in the present writ

petition. Hence, the same is dismissed.

(HEMANT GUPTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

MEENAKSHI SONI Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND OTHERS CWP 6303 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision: 09-09-2008

Meenakshi Soni ....Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others .....Respondents

Coram:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE HEMANT GUPTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA

Present:
Shri Puneet Gupta, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Shri Munish Bansal, Advocate, for respondent No.1.
Shri R.L. Sharma, Advocate, for respondent Nos. 2 and 3.

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

HEMANT GUPTA, J.
The petitioner after qualifying 10+2 examination was admitted in B.Sc. Course at Punjabi University, Patiala. The petitioner obtained 59.7% marks in B.Sc. Part-I and 55.9% in Part-II examinations. The petitioner appeared for B.Sc. Part-III examination in April, 2007.

The petitioner appeared in the Joint Entrance Test for B.Ed. (Sessions 2007-08), conducted by respondent No.2- Punjabi University.

The petitioner appeared in the Joint Entrance Test held on 15.7.2007. However, the result of the petitioner for B.Sc. Part-III examination was declared on 19.6.2007. The petitioner got compartment in mathematics.

The petitioner appeared in the supplementary examination in the said subject in September, 2007 and qualified the same.

The petitioner has attended Classes of B.Ed. Course. It was on 14.3.2008, respondent No.4 has requested the Vice Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh to permit the petitioner to appear in the annual examination treating her as a special case. It was on
29.3.2008, the Panjab University, cancelled the candidature of the petitioner on the ground that she has qualified B.Ed. Examination in September, 2007, though she was was required to do so in April, 2007.

Aggrieved against the said action, the petitioner approached this Court by way of the present writ petition and vide order dated 11.4.2008, the petitioner was permitted to continue to attend the classes.

The petitioner was admitted by respondent No.4 on the basis of her merit in the Entrance Test. In the application form, the petitioner has not withheld the information about her re-appear in the subject of mathematics. In fact, she was admitted in B.Ed. Course on 26.10.2007, whereas she cleared her B.Sc. Part-III Examination on 24.10.2007.

It is, thus, contended that the petitioner has not withheld any information while seeking admission in the month of October, 2007. The petitioner has attended her classes as well.

Therefore, the cancellation of candidature of the petitioner at this stage would be an acute hardship for the petitioner as she would lose two academic years i.e. 2007-08 and 2008-09 as well.

The sequence of events shows that the petitioner was admitted to B.Ed. Course in October, 2007, after she has qualified B.Sc. Part-III in all the subjects. Though as per the Regulations, the petitioner should have qualified graduation examination in April, 2007, but the fact remains that there is no mis-representation or withholding of the information by the petitioner when she was admitted. It was for respondent No.4, who has admitted the petitioner to find out about the eligibility conditions of the petitioner. Cancellation of candidature at this stage, when the petitioner has admittedly, qualified the qualifying examination, would be unfair, unjust and loss of resources of the country. However, we cannot overlook the fact that it was respondent No.4, who has failed to carry out its duties of finding out the eligibility conditions of the candidates admitted by the said respondent.

In view thereof, we allow the present writ petition in its peculiar facts and direct the respondent-University to regularise the admission of the petitioner. However, respondent No. 4, who has committed default in admitting the petitioner to the B.Ed. Course, is
burdened with the costs of Rs.20,000/-. Such costs shall be deposited with the Panjab University so as compensate the University for making such admission.

(HEMANT GUPTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

DR M S RAHI ADVOCATE Vs DR S P TIWARI and OTHERS CASE NO RSA 777 of 2005 (O and M)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

DATE OF DECISION : August 29,2008

Dr. M.S.Rahi, Advocate .......APPELLANT
VERSUS
Dr. S.P. Tiwari and Others ......RESPONDENTS

CORAM :
HONBLE MS. JUSTICE NIRMALJIT KAUR.

Present:
Mr. I.K. Mehta, Sr. Advocate with
Mr. M.S. Kohli, Advocate for the appellant.
Mr. M.L. Sarin, Sr. Advocate with
Mr. Vivek Sood, Advocate for respondents No.1.
Ms. Pooja Chopra, Advocate for respondent No.2.

NIRMALJIT KAUR, J.
The plaintiff filed a suit for recovery of damages on account of defamation of the plaintiff by the defendants for printing, publishing and circulating defamatory matter in the Nicety dated 27-11-1993 to 03-12-1993. The suit was dismissed. The appeal against the said judgment and decree was also dismissed on 30-01-2004 by Additional District Judge, Chandigarh. The appellant has now against these concurrent findings of fact, filed the present Regular Second Appeal.

Arguments heard.
No substantial question of law was raised to enable this Court to admit the Second Appeal. Brief facts, which are necessary to dispose of this appeal, are that the plaintiff was appointed as part time Lecturer in the Department of Laws, Panjab University, Chandigarh, which was his third term as a part time Law Lecturer. At the relevant time, Dr. S.P. Tiwari, defendant-respondent No.1 was Chairman, Department of Laws, Panjab University, Sector 14, Chandigarh. Certain well-connected students who were officers wanted that they should be marked present even though they did not attend the classes. Defendant-respondent No.1 asked plaintiff to accommodate them by marking them present. He did not agree.

Differences cropped up. A news item was published in Regional Weekly News Magazine Nicety dated 27-11-1993 to 03-12-1993.

News item is reproduced below :-

TWO CHEERS FOR BEING INDIAN NICETY NEWS SERVICE.

Guru is said to be the builder of the nation but honour of the nation can be put at stake by the same personality. It seems true after seeing irresponsible acts on part of Dr. M.S. Rahi, who is a part-time faculty member of the law department at Panjab University. The students of law department were fed up of his incessant habit of
denouncing India and Indian legal system.

Everytime while teaching in class, he used to condemn the culture and intelligence of Indians. One day, a government official, who was a student in his class, implored
Dr. Rahi not to rebuke Indians. Other students also requested not to belittle them.

On this episode, he turned furious and behaved in an indecent and irrational way
describing Indians `Pygmy. Now the dam of the patience of the students had broken and they protested against Dr. Rahi.

The students, particularly of 5th semester, also mentioned that he is unable to communicate with class and incapable of giving any answer to their relevant questions and arguments.

They described his way of teaching a `fiasco.

Subsequently, Dr. Rahi resigned for the protection of his honour and blamed the Chairman for not taking any action against the impudent(?) students. The Chairman, when contacted, denied the allegation made by Dr. Rahi against him. Infact, it is reliably learnt that a proper inequity was held in which grievances from both the sides were put on the table. Administrative Committee looked into the whole matter
and allegations against Dr. Rahi were found to be true. The students took a sigh of relief on his departure from the department. Indeed, the whole episode is a strong revolt against the alien-minded forces.

Aggrieved against the news item, suit for recovery of damages on account of defamation of the plaintiff by the defendants was filed. In order to prove his case, the plaintiff examined Dr. K.S. Chhabra as PW-1, S.D. Sharma as PW-2, I.S. Saini as PW-3 and he himself appeared as PW-4. No other witnness was examined by the plaintiff and he closed his evidence. On the other hand, defendant No.1 himself appeared as DW-1 and further examined Dr. Veer Singh as DW-2, Dr. P.S. Jaswal as DW-3.

Rajinder Singh Grewal as DW-4, Onkar Nath Gupta as DW-5, Naresh Malhotra as DW-6 and closed their evidence. Four issues were framed :-

1. Whether the plaintiff is entitled for recovery of a sum of Rs.1 lac by way of damages on account of defamation? OPP.

2. Whether the suit of the plaintiff is not maintainable? OPD

3. Whether no cause of action has accrued to the plaintiff to file the present suit against defendant No.1 as alleged? OPD

4. Whether the suit of the plaintiff is bad for nonjoinder of necessary parties as alleged? OPD

On the basis of these and after perusal of the evidence, the trial Court recorded the following finding :-

But the admission of the defendant regarding the incident shows that the complaint was made by the students of the department who signed the same. Despite the fact that name of the students have been given in the complaint they have not been made party. The witnesses examined by the plaintiff have no where been able to prove that the defendant No.1 was in any way involved in giving the news item to
the press or reporting the incident to the press and the newspaper the Nicety has published the news item as reported to them. The source which gave them the news has not been proved but it is for the plaintiff to prove his case and the defendant is not to prove the negative. The plaintiff has to stand on his own legs to
prove his case, but he has failed to do so. The defendant No.1 had adjusted the plaintiff in taking joint classes and whether he conducted any enquiry or not
is not a matter of dispute and the question is whether any defamation has been caused to the plaintiff by publishing the news item. When he filed reply to the
complaint made by the students he never took the plea that defendant No.1 was in any way involved in getting the news item published. The complaint filed by the
plaintiff u/s 599 IPC was dismissed and the plaintiff has not been able to prove his case against the defendants.

He has failed to show any ill-will or malice against the defendants. The plaintiff has not been able to prove that he is entitled for damages.

The first argument raised by Mr. I.K. Mehta, Sr. Advocate appearing on behalf of the appellant is that evidence of DW-5, Onkar Nath Gupta, Assistant Registrar, Law Department who was an important witness and who gave out the whole motive has not been noticed by the Courts below. There is no justification to interfere on this ground. The evidence of DW-5 is reproduced in the Grounds of Appeal. DW-5 Onkar Nath Gupta, in fact, has only proved the original complaint i.e. DW-5/1 and identified the signatures of Dr. Tewari in token to have received this complaint. In fact, this witness was a defence witness. Moreover, the said statement of DW-5/1 does not help the plaintiff. The incident is admitted by defendant No.1. In any case, there is nothing to prove that defendant No.1 was involved in any way in the reporting of the matter or the incident which had happened in the Department of Law on 19-10-1993. The source of the news item has not been proved and it is for the plaintiff to prove his case and the defendant is not to prove the negative. In fact, the evidence of Dr. S.P. Tewari shows that students had given a complaint Exhibit DW-5/1 to him. Dr. Veer Singh, while appearing as DW-2, categorically deposed
that certain students on that day had walked out of the class room shouting slogans as they were not satisfied with the teaching of Dr. Rahi and the students had got the copy of the said matter and sent to the Press and Dr. Tiwari never distributed the said matter. In fact, Dr. P.S. Jaswal, DW-3 and Rajinder Singh Grewal, DW-4 deposed that the students had approached the press and Dr. Tiwari had nothing to do with it. Thus, in any case, defendant No.1 cannot be held responsible for the news item.

Another argument raised by the counsel for the plaintiff is that since there is no truth in the part of the news item, where it is mentioned that Administrative Committee looked into the whole matter and allegations against Dr. Rahi were found to be true, respondent No.2 should be held liable for the false news item. Even on this ground, there is no justification to interfere because the incident which happened on 1999, has not been denied by the plaintiff. The facts, which have been published in the
Newspaper, have not been denied by the plaintiff at any stage and in fact, in para 19 of the judgment of the Appellate Court, the following findings have been recorded :-

19. In view of the authorities mentioned above, since in the present case, the Press had performed its duty and had no malice against the plaintiff, therefore, by publishing in good faith the news in question, defendant No.2 has not committed
defamation as they had no intention to harm the reputation of any person.

Whatsoever, was brought to the notice of the newspaper by the students, was
published after verification and the newspaper had no intention to defame the plaintiff. It is one of the qualified privilege of the news paper to publish true facts.

Both the arguments and issues raised by learned counsel are on facts and concurrent findings on facts have been recorded by the Courts below after appreciation of the evidence minutely.

No substantial question of law has been raised.

Learned counsel for the defendants-Mr. M.L. Sarin, Sr. Advocate, appearing on behalf of respondent No.1 and Ms. Pooja Chopra, Advocate, appearing on behalf of respondent No.2 have placed reliance on the judgment of Gurdev Kaur and Ors. v. Kaki and Ors. JT 2006(5) SC 72, to substantiate that High Court has no jurisdiction
to interfere in Second Appeal in the absence of any substantial question of law. The Honble Supreme Court in para 48 of the judgment held as follows :-

48. Now, after 1976 Amendment, the scope of Section 100 has been drastically curtailed and narrowed down. The High Courts would have jurisdiction of interfering under Section 100 CPC only in a case where substantial questions of law are involved and those questions have been clearly formulated in the memorandum of appeal. At the time of admission of the second appeal, it is the bounden duty and obligation of the High Court to formulate substantial questions of law and then only
the High Court is permitted to proceed with the case to decide those questions of law. The language used in the amended section specifically incorporates the words as substantial question of law which is indicative of the legislative intention. It must be clearly understood that the legislative intention was very clear that legislature never wanted second appeal to become third trial on facts or one more dice in the gamble. The effect of the amendment mainly, according to the amended section, was :

(i) The High Court would be justified in admitting the second appeal only when a
substantial question of law is involved;

(ii)The substantial question of law to precisely state such question;

(iii)A duty has been cast on the High Court to formulate substantial question of law before hearing the appeal;

(iv)Another part of the Section is that the appeal shall be heard only on that question.

In the present case also, no law point has been raised, much less substantial questions of law. The scope of High Court in Regular Second Appeal is limited to the question of law. The findings of facts arrived at by the Courts does not suffer from any perversity. There is no non-reading or mis-reading of the evidence.

Consequently, the Regular Second Appeal is dismissed.

(NIRMALJIT KAUR)
JUDGE

Punjabs nod for PUs central status

Sukhbir Badal say will soon write to central government
CHANDIGARH; The central university status for the Panjab University (PU) seems to have moved an inch closer with the Punjab government reportedly favouring the move albeit with a few conditions attached regarding the institute s management.

Sukhbir Singh Badal, Member Parliament and President, SAD, has mentioned that he will take up the matter with the Chief Minister immediately and will urge him to write to the Central Government in this regard. He was here to plant saplings on Panjab University campus along with Vice-Chancellor, Senior University functionaries and students on Monday.

Badal affirmed that he was in favour of University getting central support but added that his party s sole concern was safeguarding the interests of Punjab and Punjabis.
He shared his concern for the cause of education and informed that the Akali Government was committed to support education and stated, "Right from primary education to higher education, the government had initiated steps to secure financial, infrastructural and quality education," and mentioned that his dream was to make Punjab green and number one in term of over-all development.

While talking to the Pioneer Badal recalled his days as a student of the Panjab University and shared that the environment in university was the best as comparable to other top class universities of the world.

He also emphasized the need for constant updation and upgradation of technology to meet the ever-changing requirements and avowed that colleges in Punjab which are affiliated to Panjab University would continue to remain affiliated to the university. However, this would also mean that the 40 per cent grant, which Panjab University gets from the Punjab government, would also be withdrawn.

It is to be noted that the university gets 60 per cent of its budget deficit from the central government and the rest from Punjab. It must be mentioned here that over the past few years, the Punjab government had frozen its grant to the university at Rs 16 crore instead of 40 per cent of the deficit.

The PU Teachers Association had been demanding the status for the past two months. The central status university will mean higher salaries to teachers and the increase of retirement age from the current 60 years to 65 years. It means that there would be a huge budget for the university. Research students stand benefited and the cost of forms and prospectuses will be uniform like in other central universities.
Earlier on two occasions, when Punjab Chief minister Parkash Singh Badal had visited the university, he was also requested to clear his government s stand on the issue.

Immediately after the centre has announced that there would be two central universities in Punjab, including one world-class university in Amritsar, Badal had categorically stated on the campus that if the central status to PU would mean cutting on one university in Punjab, it would not be acceptable.

However, Pawan Kumar Bansal, local parliamentarian and Minister of State for Finance, had recently said that he had already received a positive feedback from the Punjab Government. He told the Pioneer, "Once Punjab government conveys its formal decision, I will take up the issue in the monsoon session of the Parliament and I am sure that the status would be awarded."

The central university status for PU would imply that the state government s commitment of contributing the 40 per cent share in the university s annual deficit would no longer be applicable and the centre would meet the entire deficit.

Of late, the university has been facing a financial crunch because the Punjab government has not paid its entitled share to the institution.

Punjab varsity releases M.Ed counseling schedule

CHANDIGARH; Panjab University has released counseling schedule for M.Ed to be held from 25.08.08 to 28.08.08 on P.U website.

Candidates for their merit marks should click http://admissions.puchd.ac.in/. According to the schedule counseling on 25th Aug will be held in English Auditorium, P.U at 10.00 A.M for candidates securing merit marks 66.00 and above & at 2.00 P.M candidates with marks 63.50 to 65.99 should report for counseling.

Counseling will be held on 26th to 28th in Law Auditorium, P.U at 9.00 A.M. On 26th candidates with merit marks 61.00 to 63.49 will report at 9.00 A.M, between 59.00 & 60.99 will report at 11.00 A.M and at 2.00 P.M candidates between 57.00 to 58.99 merit marks will report.

On 27th candidates with merit marks between 55.00 & 56.99 will report at 9.00 A.M in Law Auditorium. At 11.00 A.M candidates between 53.00 to 54.99 merit marks will report (if the seats still remain vacant). The same day all eligible S.C category students will report for counseling at 2.00 P.M in Law Auditorium.

On 28th eligible candidates of all other reserved categories will report for counseling in Law Auditorium. At 9.00 A.M reserved categories S.T, B.C/O.B.C, B.A, K.M, R.V & F.F will report. At 12.00 Noon eligible Physically Handicapped students and at 2.00 P.M candidates in reserved quota of Defense and Sports will report.

SHUBH LAKHAN SHARMA Vs PANJAB UNVIERSITY AND ANOTHER Civil Writ Petition 14774 of 2008

RAJESH PUNIA Vs PUNJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 12203 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 20.08.2008

Rajesh Punia ...Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. Pardeep Solath, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. Manish Bansal, Advocate for the respondents.

Rajan Gupta, J.
The petitioner has preferred this writ petition praying for issuance of a writ in the nature of certiorari for quashing the merit-list, prepared by the respondents for admission to MBA course in sports category. He has also prayed for a writ of mandamus directing the respondents to restore the grading assigned to him during the trials held on 4th July, 2008 from Category B- 5 (2) to B-3 (1) and to determine the merit of the petitioner in the sports category accordingly.

According to the petitioner, after acquiring 10+2 qualification, he was admitted to four years B.E. Computer Science Degree Course in the University Institute of Engineering and Technology, Punjab University, Chandigarh. Thereafter, he applied for admission to MBA course in the University Business School, Punjab University, Chandigarh. The last date for submission of application forms was 16th November, 2007. The entrance examination known as CAT Examination was held thereafter on 18th November, 2007.

The petitioner is staking his claim to 5% seats, reserved for candidates in the sports category. According to the petitioner, he was in the University Team of KORFBALL, which is one of the recognized Sports by the Punjab University, Chandigarh. He has relied upon certain certificates in this regard, which are annexed with the petition.

The petitioner secured 69.72% marks in the Common Admission Test i.e. CAT. He has further averred that the respondent University conducted a Sports Trial on 4th July, 2008 in order to assign grading to the candidates having applied in the sports category. The grievance of the petitioner is that his grading in the sports category has been unilaterally changed from B-3 (1) to B-5 (2) thereby downgrading his merit position.

On the other hand, in the reply filed on behalf of the respondent University, it has been stated that it was a matter of record that the petitioner had participated in the 21st Senior National KORFBALL Championship held at Gurgaon in February, 2008 and secured first position. It was further stated that sports trials were held on various dates starting from 4th July, 2008 by the University and the result of the petitioner under the sports quota was declared on 15th July, 2008, wherein he was placed in category B-5 (2). The University denied that the grade of the petitioner in sports category had been unilaterally
changed from B-3 (1) to B-5 (2). According to the stand of the University, the final grade list of the students seeking admission under the sports category in University Business School, was declared on 15th July, 2008 and the petitioner was placed in Grade B-5 (2). The University further took the stand that a committee was constituted by the Vice Chancellor to consider admission to various courses under the sports category and the same was held in its meeting on 15th July, 2008.

The decision taken by this committee has been annexed with the reply as
Annexure R-1. According to the University, it was unanimously decided by the committee that only those championships/events which had been concluded prior to the last date of submission of Admission Form, would be taken into consideration and not those which took place and concluded after the said date. Since last date for submitting the application form in the case of the petitioner was 16th November, 2007 till 5.00 P.M., certificates prior to the said date have been taken into consideration. However, certificate of 21st Senior KORFBALL Championship, held in the month of February, 2008, was not liable to be taken into consideration, the same being after the cut off date i.e. 16th November, 2007.

We have heard learned counsel for the parties and perused the record.

Learned counsel for the petitioner has mainly contended that a perusal of para 6 of the Guidelines for admission to the reserved category of sports, would show that achievements in sports relating to any of three years immediately preceding the year of admission should be taken into consideration. The petitioners academic year being 2008- 2009 achievements would fall within preceding three years, as envisaged by the condition contained in the said para. The said para is reproduced hereunder:-

6. Reservation under Sports category is meant only for those active sports persons who would participate in the Campus, University, National, International level, Sports Tournaments. Such students will be considered for
admission only if:-

i) their achievement in sports relate to their activities in any of three years immediately preceding the year of admission (relaxable to 4 years in exceptional cases, on merits, for outstanding sportspersons)

However, we are not convinced by this argument of the petitioner. As is evident from record, the last date for submission of forms was 16th November, 2007 and thus his achievements in sports prior to that, would only be taken into consideration by the University.

Needless to say that some cut off date has to be fixed for the purpose of
entertaining the application forms and a candidate is required to mention
their achievements and attach certificates in support thereof, along with the form. Thus, there appears to be nothing wrong in decision of the University not to consider the achievements of the candidates under the sports category after the said cut off date. The process cannot be allowed to prolong endlessly as the same would give rise to anomalous situations.

Another argument raised by the counsel for the petitioner is that the Handbook of Information-2008, provided by the University for admission to University Business School, contained a clause in para 9 (a) thereof that result of the qualifying examination should be submitted positively by 31st August, 2008 by 12.00 noon. The petitioner is relying upon the said para to say that he could also submit his achievements in sports category by 31st August, 2008 as he was required to fulfill the eligibility conditions by the said date. Thus, it was wrong on the part of the University not to consider his achievement in February, 2008 in Senior KORFBALL Championship despite the fact that eligibility was to be determined as on 31st August, 2008. The said para 9 (a) reads thus:

9 (a). The candidates appearing in final degree examinations are eligible to apply and can take the written test provisionally. They will have to fulfill the eligibility condition at the time of admission, failing which the candidates will not be considered for admission even after they have gone through all the stages of the admission process. The result of the qualifying examination should be submitted positively by 31st August, 2008 by 12 noon failing which the admission will be cancelled.

According to the petitioner, sports achievements of the candidates could not be restricted to a day prior to 16th November, 2007.

However, this argument of the counsel for the petitioner is also not tenable. A perusal of para 9 (a) above clearly shows that it only talks about the result of the qualifying examination to be submitted by the students before the last date of admission. In the petitioners case, it would mean that he has to submit the result of his Bachelor of Engineering Computer Science Exam positively by 31st August, 2008 failing which his admission would be liable to be cancelled.

This condition is normally incorporated in the prospectus, as the admission is on the basis of the entrance examination and at the time the same is held, usually result of the qualifying examination is not available. Thus, students are permitted to submit the result of the qualifying examination before the last date of admission, which in the present case is 31st August, 2008. However, this provision cannot be stretched and interpreted to mean that for all other purposes i.e. sports achievements etc., last date will be construed to be 31st August, 2008.

This interpretation, in our view, is totally misplaced and thus unacceptable.

It is an admitted fact that last date for submission of admission forms was 16th November, 2007, which we feel, was the cut off date for the purpose of submitting the admission forms along with all the necessary certificates including that of achievements in sports.

We, thus, find no merit in the writ petition. The same is hereby dismissed with no order as to costs.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

THE PUNJAB UNIVERSITY STAFF HOME PROVISION ASSOCIA Vs CHANDIGARH ADMINISTRATION AND OTHERS CWP 9108 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

DATE OF DECISION : 19.08.2008

The Punjab University Staff Home Provision Associates Co-operative
House Building Society Ltd., Sector 49-B, Chandigarh. .... PETITIONER
Versus
Chandigarh Administration and others ..... RESPONDENTS

CORAM :-
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL
HONBLE MRS. JUSTICE DAYA CHAUDHARY

Present:
Mr. Surinder Garg, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Mr. Rajesh Sharma, Advocate, for respondents No.1 and 2.
Ms. Lisa Gill, Advocate, for respondents No. 3 to 5.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL , J. ( Oral )
The petitioner Society has filed this petition under Articles 226/227 of the Constitution of India for quashing the action of the respondents, whereby they have started charging Commercial Water Rates instead of Domestic Water Rates from the residents of the petitioner Society.

By referring to the judgment dated 18.7.2006, passed by this Court in the case, titled as `The Super Cooperative House Building (First
Second) Society Ltd. versus Chandigarh Administration and others (CWP No. 14547 of 2005), counsel for the petitioner Society states that case of the petitioner Society is squarely covered by ratio of the aforesaid judgment. He further submits that application of the petitioner Society, for issuance of completion certificate, is pending with the Assistant Estate Officer (exercising the powers of the Estate Officer). However, no action has been taken thereon, without any justification.

Without looking into the facts of the case, the writ petition is
disposed of with a direction to the Assistant Estate Officer, to decide application of the petitioner Society for grant of completion certificate within a period of two months from the date of receipt of a certified copy of this order. Till final decision is taken by the officer, referred to above, water tariff shall not be charged from the petitioner at the commercial rates.

( SATISH KUMAR MITTAL )
JUDGE

( DAYA CHAUDHARY )
JUDGE

S S SANGHA AND ANOTHER Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH AND ANOTHER CWP13378 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH.

DATE OF DECISION : 30.07.2008

S.S. Sangha and another .... PETITIONERS
Versus
Panjab University Chandigarh and another ..... RESPONDENTS

CORAM :-
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE SATISH KUMAR MITTAL
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE AUGUSTINE GEORGE MASIH

Present:
Mr. R.S. Bains Advocate for the petitioners.

SATISH KUMAR MITTAL J. ( Oral )
The petitioners have filed this petition under Articles 226 227 of the Constitution of India for issuing direction to respondent No.1 University to hold the election of Senate in accordance with the Regulation 2 of Chapter II-B Volume-I of the University Calendar.

It is the case of the petitioners that names of the Teachers of the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) Chandigarh respondent No.2 herein have been added to the electoral rolls for the said election without their appointment being approved by the respondent No.1 University as per the aforesaid Rules. It has not been disputed that since the year 1963 the Teachers of PGIMER-respondent No.2 are registered as voters for the election of Senate and their names have been added in the electoral rolls. Since the election process has already started and in view of the fact that Teachers of PGIMER-respondent No.2 are registered voters since 1963 we are not inclined to entertain this writ petition at this stage.

Dismissed.

( SATISH KUMAR MITTAL )
JUDGE

( AUGUSTINE GEORGE MASIH )
JUDGE

GULRAJAN SINGH JASSAR Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY ETC CWP 11912 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: July 15 2008

GULRAJAN SINGH JASSAR ...PETITIONER
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY ETC. ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA.
HON'BLE MS. JUSTICE NIRMALJIT KAUR.

PRESENT:
MR. M.L. SAINI ADVOCATE FOR THE PETITIONER.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA J.(ORAL)
Learned counsel for the petitioner prays that he be allowed to
withdraw the writ petition.

Dismissed as withdrawn.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(NIRMALJIT KAUR)
JUDGE

NITIKA Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANR CWP 11954 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: July 15 2008

NITIKA ...PETITIONER
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY and ANOTHER ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA.
HON'BLE MS. JUSTICE NIRMALJIT KAUR.

PRESENT:
MR. G.S. KAURA ADVOCATE FOR THE PETITIONER.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA J.(ORAL)
The relief claimed by the petitioner in this writ petition has also
been claimed by him by filing a representation (Annexure P-4) which has not been decided so far.

After hearing learned counsel for the petitioner we dispose of
this writ petition with a direction to respondent No.1 to decide the
representation (Annexure P-4) within two weeks from the date of receipt of certified copy of this order.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(NIRMALJIT KAUR)
JUDGE

POOJA AGGARWAL AND ORS Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORS CWP 11707 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: July 10 2008

POOJA AGGARWAL AND OTHERS ...PETITIONERS
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA.
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA.

PRESENT:
MR. ARUN NEHRA ADVOCATE FOR THE PETITIONERS.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA J.(ORAL)
The relief claimed by the petitioners in this writ petition has also been claimed by them by serving a representation (Annexure P-8) upon the respondents which has not been decided so far.

After hearing learned counsel for the petitioners we dispose of
this writ petition with a direction to the Equivalence Committee through Registrar Panjab University to take a final decision on the representation (Annexure P-8) filed by the petitioners within a period of three months from the date of receipt of certified copy of this order.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

DHARAMVIR SHARMA Vs PB UNIVERSITY ETC CWP 3878 of 1979

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision: 03-07-2008

Dharam Vir Sharma ......Petitioner
Versus
The Panjab University Chandigarh etc. .....Respondents

Coram:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE HEMANT GUPTA
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE MOHINDER PAL

Present:
Shri Rahul Sharma Advocate for the petitioner.
None for the respondents.

1. Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?
2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?
3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

HEMANT GUPTA J.
This order shall dispose of CWP No. 3878 of 1979; CWP No.14374 of 1989; CWP No. 2524 of 1990 and CWP No. 75 of 1991 as common questions of law and facts are involved in these writ petitions. However for the facility of reference the facts are taken from CWP No. 3878 of 1979.

The petitioner has invoked the jurisdiction of this Court claiming gratuity in terms of Section 4 of the Payment of Gratuity Act 1972 (hereinafter referred to as `the Act') after submitting resignation. The petitioner joined as Stenographer in the Panjab University on 10.12.1971. The petitioner submitted his resignation on 20.4.1979 which was accepted by the University Syndicate on 19.7.1979 after the petitioner rendered 7 years and 7 months of service. The petitioner claimed gratuity under the Act. The same was declined vide order dated 3.10.1979 in view of Regulation 15 of the Panjab University Calendar Volume-I 1979.

Learned counsel for the petitioner has vehemently argued that the petitoner has been paid provident fund in terms of the Employees Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 1952 (hereinafter referred to as `the 1952 Act') and therefore in terms of Section 1(3)(b) of the Act the University being an establishment the petitioner is entitled to gratuity.

However there is no factual basis in the writ petition regarding the payment of provident fund in terms of the 1952 Act. In the absence of the pleadings of fact the argument raised cannot be examined. The petitioner cannot be permitted to raise an argument based upon a fact.

Faced with such a situation learned counsel for the petitoner contends that the University is an establishment within the meaning of the commercial establishment as defined in Section 2(1)(iv) of the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishments Act 1958. The said definition reads as under:-

2. Definitions.-(1) In this Act unless the context otherwise requires-

(iv) commercial establishment means any premises wherein any business trade or profession is carried on for profit and includes journalistic or printing establishment and premises in which business of banking insurance stocks and shares brokerage or produce exchange is carried on or which is used as hotel restaurant boarding boarding
or eating-house theatre cinema or other place of public entertainment or any other place which the Government may declare by notification in the official Gazette to be a commercial establishment for the purposes of this Act.

The averments in the writ petition are to the effect that the petitioner joined as Stenographer. In Annexure P.1 it is written that the petitioner was working in the Department of Public Relations and News Magazine Panjab University Chandigarh. In the written statement an objection was raised that the provisions of the Act are not applicable to the University. It was only in the rejoinder that the petitioner pointed that he was working in the
Department of Public Relations and News Magazine as a Stenographer and that the Department has been publishing the news magazine titled as `The Panjab University News' and that the University has a full fledged Department of Publication Bureau and press. On the strength of such pleadings an argument is raised by the learned counsel for the petitioner that since the petitioner was engaged in printing establishment therefore the petitioner was employed in a commercial establishment within the meaning of Section 2(1)(iv) of the Punjab Shops and Commercial Establishments Act 1958.

As per the pleadings of the petitioner he was employed as Stenographer in the Department of Public Relations and News Magazine. Mere fact that such Department publishes a News Magazine will not by necessary implication mean that the petitioner was engaged in a printing establishment. There is no factual basis in respect of the engagement of the petitioner in the printing establishment. His employment is as a Stenographer. In the absence of any plea of his engagement in the job of printing it cannot be accepted that the petitioner was employed in a
commercial establishment.

Consequently we do not find any merit in the present writ petitions. Hence all the writ petitions are dismissed.

(HEMANT GUPTA)
JUDGE

(MOHINDER PAL)
JUDGE

2 arrested in PU stabbing case

Chandigarh, June 02 The police arrested Harpreet Singh Multani and Vikramjeet, the two main accused in the PU stabbing case in Sector 35 on Monday. They were produced in court and have been taken to four days in the police remand.
The accused, Students Organisation of Punjab University (SOPU) president, Harpreet Singh Multani, had stabbed a law student Simrandeep Singh Sandhu in the examination hall on May 3. Two other accused—Govind Khatra and Varinder Singh Dhillon were arrested on May 29.

Around eight assailants had attacked Simrandeep with a sharp-edged weapon and rods as he was writing his sixth semester exam in a classroom on May 3. They had crept in the campus by jumping a wall.

All have been booked in a case of attempt to murder, rioting, trespassing and causing injuries under Sections 307, 452, 506, 148 and 149 of the IPC.

Rivalry between the two parties -SOPU and Panjab University Students’ Union (PUSU) is said to be the main reason behind the attack.

Simrandeep Singh belongs to PUSU and was earlier booked in a similar case of attempt to murder and rioting on March 28 this year when he, along with four other members had attacked Harpreet Singh Multani and two of his acquaintances.

“Two accused, Gursewak and Jhujar are yet to be arrested. Moreover, there are three to four other names cropping up in the case. All will be behind bars soon,” said Ramesh Chander, SHO, Sector 11 police station.

ROHIT GARG Vs PANJAB UNI CHANDIGARH AND ORS CWP 9412 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: May 30 2008

ROHIT GARG ...PETITIONER
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and ORS. ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA.
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA.

PRESENT:
MR. HARSH AGGARWAL ADVOCATE FOR THE PETITIONER.
MR. A.P.S. GILL ADVOCATE FOR RESPONDENT NOS.1 TO 5.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA J.(ORAL)
The petitioner has prayed that directions be issued to the respondents to re-evaluate the result/answer sheet of the petitioner manually as per the question paper supplied to him.

Counsel for respondent Nos.1 to 5 states that answer sheets of
the petitioner have been evaluated manually.

In this view of the mater this writ petition is rendered infructous and the same is dismissed as such.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

ROHIT RAMAN OJHA Vs PUNJABI UNIVERSITY AND ORS CWP 9745 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: May 29 2008

ROHIT RAMAN OJHA ...PETITIONER
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA.
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA.

PRESENT:
MR. DINESH KUMAR ADVOCATE FOR THE PETITIONER.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA J.(ORAL)
The petitioner is aggrieved by the orders (Annexures P-5 P-6
and P-7) vide which he has been expelled from the University on the ground that he has misbehaved with respondent No.4 and has also slapped her.

Counsel for the petitioner submits that the punishment meted out to the petitioner is very harsh and that a lenient view should have been taken in the case of the petitioner. Learned counsel further submits that he has submitted a legal notice as no documents were supplied to him before passing the orders of expulsion.

After hearing counsel for the petitioner we are of the considered opinion that in case the petitioner was not supplied the enquiry
report then the same be supplied to him within a period of 2 weeks from today and the petitioner on receipt of the same may file fresh representation before the University authorities who shall take the decision in accordance with law within a period of 1 month of the filing of the representation. The University authorities may also reexamin the proportionality of the punishment meted out to the petitioner.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

NITIKA GARG Vs STATE OF PUNJAB AND ORS

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

CWP No.16859 of 2007

Date of Decision: 21.5.2008

Nitika Garg ..Petitioner.
Vs.
State of Punjab and others ..Respondents.

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE MEHTAB S.GILL
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE RAKESH KUMAR JAIN

Present:
Mr.Mansur Ali Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr.P.C.Goyal Sr.DAG Punjab for respondents No.1 to 3.

RAKESH KUMAR JAIN J.
The petitioner has prayed for a direction to the respondents to consider her for appointment as Social Studies Mistress on the ground of having higher merit than the last selected candidate.

In brief the facts as pleaded in the petition are that vide advertisement dated 2.10.2006 the Department of School Education Punjab invited applications for recruitment of regular school teachers in various disciplines and categories. The petitioner who is M.Com. /B.Ed. applied for the post of Mistress in the subject of Social Studies as per advertisement dated 2.10.2006 (Annexure P-1) in which both qualifications and mode of
selection were provided which is reproduced as under :

(i) Basic Qualification and professional Qualification:-

Social Studies Master/Mistress :

Graduation degree with subject combination as approved by Government from time to time with B.T. or B.Ed. Any two subjects from : History Political Science Economics Geography Public Administration Psychology Sociology Mass Communication Philosophy Statics Environment Studies Elective English or English Literature Business Management Business Administration Commerce Accountancy Mathematics.

OR Senior Basic Trained (including service of D.P.Ed. and
B.P.Ed. as Master/Mistress with at least three years of
actual teaching experience.

Mode of Selection:-
The recruitment shall be strictly made to respective categories only on merit without a recruitment test or
interview marks. Merit will be prepared by adding the
percentage of marks obtained in basic minimum prescribed academic qualification and basic minimum prescribed professional qualification.

Merit shall be computed by Centre for Development of
Advanced Computing a Scientific Society of Ministry of
Communications and Information Technology Govt. of India (C-DAC).

The form of the petitioner was duly received in the office of respondent No.2 on 31.10.2006 and was scrutinized in the office of respondent No.3. The petitioner had appeared in the office of respondent No.3 on 15.11.2006 for interview and produced all her original certificates.

The petitioner had secured 71.8% in Graduation and 75.8% in B.Ed.

However when the result was declared on 26.11.2006 in the Daily newspaper `The Tribune' the name of the petitioner was conspicuously absent. The petitioner when learnt that the candidates lower in merit had been selected while she has been ignored not only she approached the respondents to consider her name vide E mail dated 29.11.2006 but had also served a legal notice dated 15.1.2007. Subsequently the State of Punjab issued a fresh advertisement dated 29.9.2007 in which the last selected candidate of Social Studies Mistress was having 73.375%. There was a note in the subsequent advertisement that the candidates who are having more marks they should appear before the Local Office in Panjab University Chandigarh. The petitioner had appeared before the Local Office and her form was again scrutinized where respondent No.3 himself calculated the
percentage of petitioner as 73.80%. In spite of the same the petitioner was not considered for appointment and was rejected.

On notice of motion respondents No.1 and 2 have filed written statement in which the only ground convassed for ignoring the claim of the petitioner was that she does not possess the requisite qualification as prescribed by the advertisement dated 27.10.2006 (Annexure P-1). It was
alleged that for the purpose of Social Studies Master/Mistress the candidate should possess B.T.or B.Ed with Graduation degree with subject combination as approved by Govt. from time to time. It was further alleged that the petitioner has not passed the examination in any two subjects out of the subjects namely History Political Science Economics Geography
Public Administration Psychology Sociology Mass Communication Philosophy Statistics Environment Studies English Elective or English Literature Business Management Business Administration Commerce Accountancy Mathematics.

The petitioner filed replication to the written statement filed by respondents No.1 and 2 in which she had categorically stated that she possessed the requisite qualification as in her Graduation she has passed combination of two subjects namely Economics and Accountancy. In order to demonstrate this fact the petitioner has also placed on record Annexures P-12 P-13 and P-14 the result-cum-Details Marks Card of B.Com-I II and III.

Learned counsel for the petitioner has argued that subject of Accountancy is actually known as Financial Accountancy in B.Com.-I Corporate Accounting in B.Com.-II and Cost Accounting and Management Accounting and Business Finance in B.Com.-III. Similarly Economics is
known as Quantitative Techniques for Business in B.Com.-I Bank and Foreign Trade Management and Business Economics in B.Com.II and Indian Economics Problems in B.Com.-III. Therefore the petitioner has the combination of both subjects Economics and Accountancy as prescribed in the qualification and thus the candidature of the petitioner has been illegally ignored/rejected by the respondents on the pretext that she does not possess the requisite qualification.

Sh.P.C.Goyal Sr.DAG Punjab has been fair enough to admit
that the petitioner has the combination of subjects of Economics and Accountancy in her Graduation as described by the counsel for the petitioner and as also mentioned in para No.1 of the replication.

In view of the aforesaid admitted position since the petitioner possesses the requisite qualification and has more merit than the last selected candidate she is definitely entitled to be considered for appointment to the post of Social Studies Mistress. Consequently the writ petition is allowed and the respondents are hereby directed to consider the petitioner for appointment as Social Studies Mistress and issue her appointment letter within a period of one month from the receipt of certified copy of this order. However there shall be no order as to costs.

(Rakesh Kumar Jain)
Judge

( Mehtab S.Gill )
Judge

Scholarship award function held at PU

Chandigarh, May 18 The annual general body meeting and scholarship award function of the Panjab University Alumni Association (PUAA) was held in the Golden Jubilee Hall of the university on Sunday.
Professor Bhupinder Singh Bhoop, dean, Alumni Association and secretary, PUAA presented the annual report. They honoured Padam Bhushan Professor B N Goswami, an art historian, author, researcher and educationist and Professor Mandip Singh Sachdeva, Joint Head of the Department, Pharmaceutics and department of Nanotechnology, Florida A and M University, Tallahassee, USA. Cash prizes and certificates were given to 45 students who had topped the various disciplines of the University during the academic session 2006-07.

Subhash Chander Kohli and Dr Navdeep Goyal were elected as vice-president and joint secretary-cum-treasurer.

Sports quota gone, new courses introduced

The syndicate meeting of the Panjab University campus on Sunday decided to do away with the two per cent reservation for students under the sports quota at the university’s Dental College. The decision was taken on the directions of the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the decision on a uniform fee structure for private colleges has been deferred.

It was also decided to introduce a two-year certificate course to train lab technicians in the Dental College. The minimum qualification required to seek admission to the course is Class XII and the course fee has been pegged at Rs 20,000 per annum. The meeting also approved the introduction of an M.Phil in

Defence Studies in the Centre for Defence and National Security Studies.

In the meanwhile, the university has decided to form a committee to work on a uniform fee structure as per the Supreme Court guidelines which says that there should be a uniform fee in different colleges including aided, affiliated and private colleges. The

final decision will be taken after the committee decides on the same.

The university had received a letter from the Dental Council of India saying that the Supreme Court has directed it to do away with the reservation quota for sports persons. Though the syndicate approved the decision and did away with the reserved seats, a few members have demanded the varsity to show a copy of the letter.

In another move, the remuneration for the teachers checking the answer sheets for the graduate and post graduate courses were increased.

Ashish Dhar, Lecturer in Pharmacology, was felicitated for being selected for the Rafaelsen Young Scientist Award, consisting of a citation, air travel, free registration and local hospitality besides $500. He has been invited to present his research work entitled ‘Involvement of Nitric Oxide (NO) signaling a pathway in the antidepressant action of buproplon, dopamine reuptake inhibitor’ at the XXVI Collegeium Internationale Neuro- Psychopharmacologlcum (CINP) scheduled to be held at Munich, Germany on July 13-17.

The meeting also discussed the proposal of the Centre of Advanced Study in Physics titled “Tandem Accelerator at Panjab University” with an estimated recurring and non-recurring cost of about Rs 75 crore for five years. The proposal, submitted to the department of Science and Technology is in an advanced stage for funding.

Highlights of the meeting
* Two per cent reservation for students under sports category done away at Dental College
* Two-year certificate course introduced at Dental College
* M.Phil in Defence Studies introduced
* Ten per cent remuneration increased for teachers checking PG answer sheets
* Ashish Dhar, Lecturer in Pharmacology, felicitated

HITESH SHARMA Vs PUNJAB UNIVERSITY CHD AND ORS Civil Writ Petition 6917 of 2008

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana Chandigarh.

Date of Decision: 19.5.2008

Hitesh Sharma …Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University Chandigarh and Others …Respondents

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HON’BLE MR.JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA

Present:
Ms. Satpreet Grewal Kapila Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. Manpreet Singh Advocate for respondents No.2 and 3.

Ashutosh Mohunta J. (Oral)
Learned counsel for the petitioner states that as C.W.P. No. 593 of 2008 titled as Dr. Meenakshi Kumari v. Union Territory Chandigarh has been dismissed today therefore this writ petition has been rendered infructuous.

Dismissed as infructuous.

(Ashutosh Mohunta)
Judge

(Kanwaljit Singh Ahluwalia)
Judge

Sports quota to be scrapped at dental college

Chandigarh, May 16 Regularising of fee charged by different private colleges will be discussed at Syndicate meeting
While on the one hand, the Supreme Court has introduced the 27 per cent reservation for the Other Backward Classes (OBCs), on the other hand it has cancelled the 2 per cent reservation for students from the sports background at the Panjab University’s dental college. The same will be implemented after the Syndicate meeting scheduled on Sunday.

One of the senior lecturers said that the decision has been taken on the appeal by the Medical Council of India and the Dental Council of India. The decision is significant as it will affect a lot of students since many of them have hopes of getting admission on the basis of sports quota.

The other important issues to be discussed in the Syndicate meeting include — regularising the fee charged by different private colleges affiliated to the Panjab University (PU).

One of the students said: “The decision is quite disheartening and is biased. On the one hand, they have introduced 27 per cent for the OBCs, while they are planning to scrap 2 per cent reservation for the sportsmen. The decision is quite unfair and should be reviewed.”

After the syndicate approves the decision, the private colleges will have to charge fee as approved by the PU and it will be same for all the affiliated colleges.

Also, the syndicate meeting will take a decision regarding introduction of a two-year certificate course in the Dental College.

The course will train the lab technicians and the minimum qualification required to take admission is Class XII and the course fee has been pegegd at Rs 20,000 per year.

While the remuneration for the teachers checking the graduate course answersheets has been increased, the teachers checking the postgraduate course answersheets have been left out.

An increase in the remuneration by ten per cent has been demanded by them and will be discussed in the meeting held on Sunday.

Over 1,600 applicants for management course in PU

Chandigarh, May 15 The University Institute of Applied Management Sciences (UIAMS), the new department in the Panjab University, has received over 1,600 applications against the 200 seats available.
Meanwhile, the off-campus courses that has been started from this academic session onwards received over 100 forms on the first day of submission.

Earlier the University Business School (UBS) was the only department offering management courses. Professor Anil Kumar Saihjpal, coordinator for the departments said, “We have got more response than we expected. The department doesn’t offer conventional courses in management. For the off-campus courses we are expecting a huge response as we have introduced satellite methods of teaching.”

The last date for applying for the off campus course is May 28 and admissions will be held on June 15.

Various management courses have been introduced in the UIAMS in retail management, banking and insurance, infrastructure management, pharmacy management and hospital management.

The overall seats available in the department are 200.

Meanwhile, the off-campus courses that are available are: Diploma in International Business, Entrepreneur Management and NRI Entrepreneur Management.

The course has been introduced for working professionals who wish to enhance their academic skills.

40th day of the chain fast for Central University Status to PU

Chandigarh,16 May:On the 40th day of the chain fast for Central University Status to PU, teachers and research scholars from the Department of Panjabi, Panjab University sat on the fast. Dr. Sukhdev Singh along with 8 research scholars, Gurjit Singh, Hardeep Singh, Gurmit Kaur, Harwinder Kaur, Sarabjit Kaur, Aman Saini, Deepak Dhalewan and Harvinder sat throughout the day on the chain fast and they were supported by the other teacher colleagues, Dr. Charandeep Singh and Dr. Joginder Nehru.

Addressing the media from the dharna site, Dr. Sukhdev Singh said that obduracy of the Punjab Govt. on the issue of Central University Status to Panjab University is going to be suicidal both for Punjab and Punjabi language. It is a bad politics and equally bad economics of Punjab Govt. that is proving disastrous for the future of higher education, particularly the centres of excellence in the region. Perhaps it is the only rich state of India with such a bad record of education. It is a backward looking state government that is bound to fall further on the ladder of development if proactive attitude to development and education is not brought into the centre of the policy planning, said Dr Sukhdev Singh. “While even the most backward states like Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and U.P. are persuading Union Government to invest more money in education in their respective state, Punjab Government is refusing to avail such opportunity offered to Panjab University. By this act, whether Punjab Govt. is strengthening its claim over Chandigarh or loosing it, only time will tell,” rued Dr. Nehru, Department of Panjabi.

In the meanwhile, PUTA representatives met various members of the UGC Team, visiting P.U. in connection with 11th Plan, and apprised them about the serious financial crunch Panjab University is undergoing at the moment. Addressing the faculty of P.U. assembled on the eve of summer vacation, one after the other members of the UGC team expressed their concern for the central university status for P.U. and wished it to be accomplished sooner than later. The delegation of PUTA also submitted representation to Dr M.S. Jairajpuri, Chairman of the UGC Team, with an appeal to forward it to the appropriate quarters at Delhi.

Punjab University to hold Alumni meet

CHANDIGARH: Panjab University Alumni Association (PUAA) is going to hold its Annual General Body Meeting (AGM) and Scholarship Award Function on Sunday, the 18th May, 2008 in Golden Jubilee Hall, Panjab University, Chandigarh, from 12.15 p.m. onwards.

The meeting will be presided over by Professor R.C. Sobti, Vice-Chancellor, P.U. Mr. Ramesh Inder Singh, IAS, Chief Secretary, Punjab would be the Chief Guest. Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, former Sports Minister, GOI, is likely to be the Guest of Honour. Although this is an annual event, it assumes distinctive significance in the light of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Panjab University. At this meet, a total of 43 meritorious students who topped the respective disciplines of Panjab University would also be awarded with PUAA scholarships.

Among the various issues that would be contemplated and thrashed at the Annual General Meeting include, occupation of the newly constructed and ready for possession Alumni Guest House (with four state-of-the-art suites, one Dining Lobby and Lounge, Kitchen, etc.) in the 2nd phase of Alumni House, publication of alumni directory and annual periodical of the Association, (PU Alumnus), approval of the budget estimates and accounts, facilities to be imparted to the members, endowment funds, presentation of annual report, etc. Besides, the officer bearers and members of the Executive Council would also be duly elected at the AGM according to Prof Bhupinder Singh Bhoop, Dean, Alumni Relations & Spokesman, Professor, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh.

DAVNEET KAUR Vs. REGISTRAR PUNJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANR Civil Writ Petition 1199 of 2008 (O and M)

SAVITOJ KAUR Vs REGISTRAR PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH and ANR Civil Writ Petition 2060 of 2008 (O and M)

AMBER GILL Vs PANJAB UNIVERSITY ETC CWP 5177 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: May 12, 2008

AMBER GILL ...PETITIONER
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY ETC. ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA.
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE T.P.S. MANN.

PRESENT:
MR. JATIN SALWAN, ADVOCATE FOR THE PETITIONER.
MR. VIKRANT SHARMA, ADVOCATE FOR THE RESPONDENTS.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA, J.(ORAL)
The petitioner prays that his legal notice (Annexure P-4) be
ordered to be decided expeditiously.

Counsel for the respondents states that he has no objection if an order to this effect is passed by the Court.

After hearing learned counsel for the petitioner, we dispose of this writ petition with a direction to the respondents to decide the legal notice (Annexure P-4) in accordance with law on or before 30.6.2008.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(T.P.S MANN)
JUDGE

Political rivalry triggers a spate of violence in Punjab University

Chandigarh, May 8 The Panjab University is on the verge of becoming a haven for anti-socials if one goes by the spiralling incidents of violence taking place on the campus in recentpast.
Increasing youth rage, political rivalry and the callous attitude of the authorities have all contributed towards making one of the oldest universities in the country a hub of untoward incidents

As opposed to just two such cases of violence being reported in 2006, PU has seen as many as eight cases involving violent attacks or criminal intimidation by students registered till date this year, including three cases of attempt to murder involving university students.

Rivalry between the two student political parties, namely the Students Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU) and Panjab University Students Union (PUSU) has been at the root of almost all incidents of violence that have been disrupting the serenity of the campus.

Being arch political rivals, the supporters of these parties have been increasingly taking the law in their own hands and many students have been arrested in this regard. In total, more than 35 students of the university have been arrested in a number of cases involving threatening, rioting, criminal trespass and attempt to murder since the past three years. Newsline goes into the past history of the incidents involving rifts where university students were arrested.

March 1, 2006: Nine students belonging to Punjab University Students Union (PUSU) were arrested for creating a ruckus and engaging in a brawl at the Student Centre. The case is still pending in the court.

July 11, 2006: Three students of PUSU were arrested after they allegedly stabbed a SOPU member, Harjivan Singh, who was a first year student of DAV College Sector 10. They were booked for attempt to murder under Section 307, 34 of the Indian Penal Code.

June 13, 2007: Two students and supporters of SOPU were arrested for attempt to murder after they beat up and stabbed a Khalsa College student.

August 2, 2007: Four members of PUSU were arrested for attacking SOPU supporters. The then PUSU President Abhishek Puri allegedly hit one of them with a bottle. Two SOPU members were also arrested after a cross complaint was filed.

November 6, 2007: Two SOPU members were arrested after they allegedly broke the windowpanes of the complainant’s car and attacked him with swords.

November 13, 2007: Three members of the INSO were booked for pelting stones at the V-C’s house.

Till date in 2008: Anurag Chauhan, Chairman of INSO was arrested for sending threatening SMS to the PU’s V-C. He was also booked for causing hurt to a public servant.

The PUSU-SOPU clash took an ugly turn on March 28. Five PUSU supporters were arrested, including Simrandeep Singh Sandhu. The SOPU got back at Sandhu by stabbing him on May 3. The accused are still absconding.

Around 19 students were booked by the police yesterday under preventive action and later released on bail.

19 arrested with weapons from PU

Chandigarh, May 7 As many as 19 supporters of the president of a students’ political party were arrested when they forayed into the Panjab University campus with swords, rods and baseball bats.
The president of Student Organisation of India (SOI), Sarabjit Singh, has also been booked under the Prevention Act. Five assailants in a car were nabbed from near Gate Number 2 of PU. A large number of bats and sticks were recovered from their car.

Another 14, who had entered the varsity from Gate Number 1, were arrested from the Law Department.

Police claimed to have recovered rods and swords from their cars. The vehicles have been impounded. The accused were later released on bail after they were produced before the SDM in the evening.

SOI president Sarabjit Singh is a student of the varsity’s Law Department and had come to appear for a third-year exam.

He had reportedly brought along the 19 who hailed from Balaungi. Police sources said Sarabjit had brought them along either to attack rival groups or fearing an attack from them.

Those arrested have been identified as Jaspreet Singh, Harpreet Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Tejinder Singh, Daljit Singh, Akashdeep, Gurpreet, Jatinder, Inderjit Thakur, Hansraj, Ramandeep, Vikram, Gurdeep, Iqbal, Prem Singh, Deepak Chauhan, Parvinder Singh, Resham Singh and Rajinder Singh.

Coordination trouble at placement cell, students suffer

CHANDIGARH: The students of University Institute of Fashion Technology and Vocational Development (UIFT & VD), Panjab University, Chandigarh organized its Annual Function "Rampage - 2008" on the premises of University.

The event was full of fun and frolic with dances, singing, mimicry and many other interesting games by the staff and students.

Prizes were given away for competition held during the year. Aarti Kashyap got all rounder students best prize. Menu bagged prize for the Best Initiator and Sapna Nanda got the most Stylish Title. Meenakshi got the first prize in designing competition while Komal scored second position.

All the students were given the founder batch shields. Dr. Sween, Coordinator of the department of UIFT & VD, while speaking on the occasion, said that fashion is growing industry and there is lot of scope for employment in buying, export houses as merchandisers and entrepreneurs.

Dr. Rita Kant, a senior faculty member, said that new admission shall begin in the month of June on the basis of aptitude test. Amandeep Kaur, member ofthe faculty was behind the hosting of the show according to Dr. Sween, Coordinator, University Institute of Fashion Technology and Vocational Development, P.U.

19 arrested with weapons from PU

PARVINDER KUMAR Vs SECREARY CBSE ETC

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH

R.S.A. No. 3261 of 2005

Date of decision : 08-05-2008

Pervinder Kumar
.....Appellant
Secretary, Central Board of Secondary Education, Haryana Circle, Chandigarh and others .....Respondents

CORAM :
HONBLE MR. JUSTICE RAKESH KUMAR JAIN

Present :
Mr. N.C. Kinra, Advocate for the appellant.

RAKESH KUMAR JAIN, J.
The plaintiff is in Second Appeal. In brief, the facts of the case
as per the plaint, are that the plaintiff was born on 05-05-1980.

He took admission in Government Primary School, Morkheri at the age of six years. He studied there for more than three years w.e.f. 28-04-1986 to 28-09-1989 and his date of birth was rightly mentioned in the Migration Certificate issued by the school.

Thereafter, the plaintiff had taken admission in Malviya Shiksha Sadan, Ashok Vihar, Sonepat. Since, he was weak in studies, therefore, the School gave him admission in K.G. Class where he studied uptill the year 1999 and passed 10th Class. But due to inadvertence, his date of birth was wrongly mentioned in the Matriculation Certificate as 01-11-1985 instead of 05-05-1980.

According to the plaintiff, he immediately filed an application to the defendant No.3 who is the principal of the school and also went to the C.B.S.E. Centre at Chandigarh (defendant No.1) and requested them for the correction of his date of birth and supplied death certificate of his father and his migration certificate to them.

The plaintiff further alleged in the plaint that he took admission in 10+1 Class in Saini Senior Secondary School, Prem Nagar,
Rohtak, which is affiliated to Haryana Board and had passed his 10+1 and 10+2 Class from that School. After a continuous enquiry about the correction in his date of birth, he again sent an application dated 19-03-2002 for the correction but defendant No.3 did not take any action.

On the contrary, defendant No.2, vide letter dated 01-05-2002 had declined to correct the date of birth of the plaintiff on the ground that the correction can only be done within two years.

This letter/order of rejection dated 01-05-2002 has been challenged in the present case by the plaintiff, alleging the following grounds :

(i) That the defendants have erred in not taking into consideration the fact that if the date of birth as mentioned in Matriculation Certificate i.e. 01-11-1985 is right then the plaintiff took admission in Government Primary School, Morkheri on 28-04-1986, then it is unbelievable that how an infant of 6 months took admission in school.

(ii)That the defendants have erred in not considering the fact that in the migration certificate, date of birth of plaintiff is rightly mentioned as 5.5.1980 as the plaintiff took admission in this school at about the age of 6 years.

(iii)That the defendants have also erred in not considering the fact that the father of the plaintiff late Sh. Prem Chand died on 13.4.1983 then if the date of birth as mentioned in Matriculate Certificate is taken to be correct i.e. 1.11.1985, then it is not at all
possible because it means the plaintiff took birth after about 2 years and 7 months of the death of his father, a totally unbelievable and highly irrelevant preposition.

(iv)That the defendant no.2 has also erred in not considering the fact that the defendant no.3 has even uptil now not sent the previous application and the last one to it (defendant no.1) for correction of date of birth of the plaintiff as it is the fault of defendant no.3 due to which wrong date of birth has been got mentioned in the Matriculation Certificate.

(v)That the defendants have also erred in not considering the fact that if the date of birth of the plaintiff is not corrected, then he will suffer irreparable losses and humiliation in the society and also in the field of education etc.

On notice, defendants No.1 and 2 filed a joint written statement.

The suit of the plaintiff was contested on the ground of limitation, averring that the cause of action had accrued to the plaintiff in June, 1999 but the suit has been filed in August,2002 after more than three years, the Court at Rohtak had no territorial jurisdiction as the C.B.S.E. is having its Head Office at New Delhi and as per the Rule 4 of the Examination Bye-laws, only the Courts at New Delhi has the jurisdiction and also on the ground that the date of birth cannot be changed after the expiry of two years, in view of Rule 69.2 of the Examination Bye-laws which
has a statutory force of law. In the written statement, Rule 69.2 of the Examination Bye-laws was also mentioned which is reproduced as under :

69.2 Change/Correction in Date of Birth i) No change in the Date of Birth once recorded in the Boards records shall be made. However, corrections to correct typographical and other
errors to make the certificate consistent with the School records can be made provided that corrections in the school records should not have been made after the submission of application
form for admission to Examination to the Board.

ii) Such correction in Date of Birth of a candidate in case of genuine clerical errors will be made under orders of the Chairman where it is established to the satisfaction of the Chairman that the wrong entry was made erroneously in the list of candidates/application form of the candidate for the examination.

iii)Request for correction in Date of Birth shall be forwarded by the Head of the School along with the photostat copies of ;

a) Application for admission of the candidate to the School.

b) Portion of the page of admission and withdrawal register where entry in date of birth has been made.

c) The School Leaving Certificate of the previous school submitted at the time of admission.

iv)The application for correction in date of birth duly forwarded by the Head of School alongwith documents mentioned in bye law 69.2(iii) shall be entertained by the Board only within two years of
the date of declaration of result of Class X examination. No correction whatsoever shall be made on application submitted after the said period of two years. This will be effective from the
examination to be held in March, 1995.

The petitioner filed replication in which it was alleged that the suit was not time barred as he was minor at that time and when he attained the age of majority, then he came to know the actual effect of the date of death of his father and the date of birth wrongly written in his Matriculation Certificate. It is also alleged that the Court at Rohtak has the territorial jurisdiction and so far as Rule 69.2 is concerned, that too, is not applicable.

On the respective pleadings of the parties, the Court framed the following issues vide order dated 13-05-2003 :

1. Whether the impugned letter dated 1.5.2002 be set aside, as alleged if so to what effect?OPP

2. Whether the suit is time barred?OPD

3. Whether the present court has no jurisdiction to entertain the present suit?OPD

4. Relief

Both the parties led oral as well as documentary evidence.

The trial Court in para 9 of its judgment observed that the date of birth of the plaintiff has been wrongly recorded in the Matriculation Certificate. Para 9, the judgment of the trial Court is reproduced as under :

There is no rebuttal to this evidence by the plaintiff. The plaintiff has properly proved the school leaving certificate issued by Government Primary School, Morkheri as Ex.P1 in which his date of birth has been mentioned as 5.5.1980 and date of admission as 28.4.1986. It is try that if his date of birth would have been 1.11.1985, he could not have been given admission in Government Primary School, Morkheri when he was merely six months old. There is no evidence on the case file that this certificate Ex.P1 has been forged by the plaintiff.

Another entry which shows that the actual date of birth of the plaintiff is 5.5.1980, is the death certificate of his father Prem Chand Ex.P2 which shows that he died on 13.4.1983, the actual date of birth of plaintiff could not be 1.11.1985 as his father
had already died about 2 years and 7 months prior to his alleged date of birth. The plaintiff and his mother have made the statement on oath that mother of plaintiff had not remarried.

Thus, the date of birth of plaintiff cannot be 1.11.1985. When this is the position, there is no reason to disbelieve the plaintiff that his date of birth is 5.5.1980.

However, the suit was dismissed on two counts, firstly, that the
period of two years, as per rule 69.2 of the Examination Bye-laws, has expired and secondly, as per Regulation 4, the Rohtak Court has no territorial jurisdiction.

The plaintiff filed first appeal in which, in so far question of territorial jurisdiction was concerned, it was observed by the appellate Court that worst to worst, it could be presumed that the cause of action has arisen at Sonepat but not at Rohtak, therefore, Rohtak Court has no territorial jurisdiction and on the issue of interpretation of Rule 69.2 of the Examination Bye-laws, it was held that the application has not been filed within time, therefore, no relief can be granted to the plaintiff.

At the time of admission vide order dated 25-09-2006, the following substantial question of law was framed by this Court :

Whether the suit of the plaintiff to claim correct date of birth is beyond the period of limitation?

Besides the above question, since the suit was dismissed for lack of territorial jurisdiction, the question involved is as to whether the Court at Rohtak, had the jurisdiction to decide the lis between the parties, if the cause of action or part thereof, had arisen within its territorial jurisdiction.

Learned counsel for the plaintiff-appellant has argued that he
has filed the suit on 19-08-2002 to challenge the impugned letter dated 01-05-2002 which is on record as Exhibit D-2, wherein, referring to Rule 69.2 (iv) of the Examination Bye-laws of the Board, it was observed that the application for correction in date of birth duly forwarded by the Head of School alongwith documents mentioned in bye law 69.2(iii) shall be entertained by the Board only within two years of the date of declaration of result of Class X examination. No correction, whatsoever, shall be made on application submitted after the said period of two years. Counsel for the appellant has submitted that the suit has been filed within the period of limitation but so far as the correction in the date of birth is concerned, that has been declined because of Rule 69.2 of the Examination Bye-laws.

Counsel for the appellant has argued that even if remedy as per
Administrative law/Rule becomes barred by limitation, legal remedy is still available under the Civil Law before the Civil Court. It was further argued that if it is proved to the satisfaction of the Court that the Date of Birth was actually wrong and was recorded because of a bonafide mistake and the applicant did not earn any undue benefit by mentioning it, the same can be
ordered to be corrected. In order to substantiate his argument, the counsel for the appellant has referred to the decision of this Court rendered in the case of Karam Singh v. State of Punjab 2006(2) R.C.R. (Civil) 755, which was also a case of correction of date of birth. In respect of the second point on which, the suit was dismissed by the Court due to lack of territorial jurisdiction, the counsel for the appellant has argued that as per Section 20(c) of the C.P.C, part of the cause of action had arisen within the territorial jurisdiction of the Court at Rohtak.

No one has put in appearance on behalf of the respondents
despite service.

I have heard learned counsel for the appellant and have perused the record. It is interesting to note that both the Courts below have returned the findings on merit that the date of birth of the appellant has been wrongly recorded. It has been found that the actual date of birth of the plaintiff could not be 01-11-1985 as his father had already died on 13-04-1983, about two years and seven months prior to the alleged date of birth, especially when, his mother stated on oath that she had not re-married. It was also found that if his date of birth is 01-11-1985, therefore, he could not have got admission in the Government Primary School, Morkheri on 28-04-1986 as he would have been six months old at that time. It was also found that there is no evidence on the case file that School Leaving Certificate (Exhibit P-1) issued by the Government Primary School, Morkheri has been forged by the plaintiff.

In view of the above peculiar circumstances where the plaintiff is proved to have been born on 05-05-1980 and the date of birth 01-11-1985 has been wrongly recorded, the only hindrance in his way is of Rule 69.2 of the Examination Bye-laws, whereby, his prayer has been turned down by the respondents on the ground that the application has not been submitted within a period of two years.

In the case of Karam Singh v. State of Punjab and another (supra) relied upon by the counsel for the appellant, this Court has relied upon three decisions, namely, Jiwan Dass v. State of Haryana 1989(2) I.L.R. Punjab and Haryana 110, Hari Parshad Handa v. The State of Punjab (1985-1)87, P.L.R. 39 and State of Haryana v. Chander Singh alias Chander Bhan 1988(2) P.L.R. 265. In the case of Jiwan Dass v. State of Haryana (supra), it was held that even if the period of two years or extended period of six months are not available and there is no remedy left under the administrative law after the stipulated period has expired, legal remedy under the civil law will still be available, because administrative law cannot, in fact, bar the jurisdiction of civil courts. It was further held that even the decisions of administrative authorities allowing or rejecting those
requests for alternation in date of birth which may have been made within the stipulated period, too are open to judicial scrutiny when challenged before a Court of competent jurisdiction. It was thus held in the case of Jiwan Dass v. State of Haryana and another (supra), that even if a remedy as per the administrative law/rules had become barred by limitation, a legal remedy is available to the aggrieved person under the civil law before a civil court.

In the case of Hari Parshad Handa v. The State of Punjab
(supra), the Court had held that if there is no allegation of fraud or mis-representation, the prayer for correction in date of birth should not be declined. In the present case, no fraud or mis-representation has been projected by the defendant nor anything has been proved against the plaintiff rather the Court has held that the date of birth has been wrongly recorded but because of the hindrance of Rule 69.2 of the Examination Bye-law, the suit has been dismissed. In my view, in such like cases as the one in hand, the respondent authority should not be insensitive to such
situations, where persons like plaintiff who has lost his father in 1983 and the mother has remained un-married, thereafter, should be declared to have been born in 1985 due to mistake apparent on the face of record.

Since, the defendants have not brought on record anything to impute motive to the plaintiff for correction in the date of birth other than the aforesaid and has also not proved any fraud or mis-representation, the law cited by the counsel for the appellant in the case of Karam Singh v. State of Punjab (supra) is fully applicable to the effect that even if remedy as per law or rules has become barred by limitation, the legal remedy available to the plaintiff under the Civil Law before the Civil Court should have been granted by the Courts below. The judgments relied upon by the Courts below in the case of State of Haryana and others vs. Sumitra Devi and others 2004(1) RSJ 552 and Board of Secondary Education of Assam vs. Md. Sarfraz Zaman and others 2004(2) RSJ 274 are on there on facts and such is not the question here because in this case both the Courts have found as a matter of fact that the entry of date of birth is wrongly recorded and if the same is allowed to be maintained there, it is socially stigmatic.

So far as the question of territorial jurisdiction is concerned, the
lower appellate Court has held that the plaintiff had cleared his
matriculation examination while studying in Malviya Shiksha Sadan, Ashok Vihar, Sonepat, therefore, worst to worst the cause of action is presumed to have been accrued to the appellant within the territorial jurisdiction of Court at Sonepat and not at Rohtak. The counsel for the appellant has submitted that the plaintiff-appellant has categorically stated in para 2 of the plaint that his date of birth is 05-05-1980 and at the age of six years, he took admission in Government Primary School, Morkheri, which is in District Rohtak and studied there for more than three years i.e. from 28-04-1986 to 28-09-1989 and his date of birth has been rightly mentioned in the Migration Certificate, issued by that school. The counsel for the appellant further submitted that the cause of action has to be determined from the bundle of facts, stated in the plaint and those facts constitute cause of action which are necessary for the success or failure of claim set up in the plaint.

The counsel for the appellant again reverted to the decision of this Court in the case of Karam Singh (supra), where the Court, while deciding the question of jurisdiction, has pleased to hold as under :

27. The Apex Court in the case of Bloom Dekot Limited v. Subhash Himatlal Desa and others, (1994)6 Supreme Court Cases 322 held that by `cause of action it is meant every fact, which, if traversed, it would be necessary for the plaintiff to prove in order to support his right to a judgment of the Court. In other words, a bundle of facts which it is necessary for the plaintiff to
prove in order to succeed in the suit.

28. Thus, it has to be held that a cause of action is a bundle of facts on which the plaintiff bases his right to relief against the defendant and constitutes all such facts which would be necessary for the plaintiff to prove in order to sustain his claim and would include all such facts which if not proved would result in a failure for the plaintiff. In these circumstances, it has to be examined as to whether the facts which have been pleaded by the plaintiff in the plaint giving details with regard to his admission in the primary school at Amritsar wrong mentioning of the date of birth in the school register and the entry in the register of Additional District Registrar, Births and Deaths, Amritsar are such facts which the plaintiff was required to prove to succeed in his claim for correction of the date of birth. In my considered view, the aforesaid facts are not only necessary but are the basis of the claim of the plaintiff.

The mere fact that the relief was being claimed against defendant-Punjab University, which has no office at Amritsar, would be of no consequence. In these circumstances, the case of the plaintiff would be covered by Clause (c) of Section 20 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

It is well settled that a territorial jurisdiction has to be determined with reference to the pleadings contained in the plaint, irrespective of the stand taken by the defendant.

The stand taken by the plaintiff brings his case within the territorial jurisdiction of the courts at Amritsar. In these circumstances, the finding recorded by the two courts below that courts at Amritsar had no territorial jurisdiction is also erroneous and, therefore, the said finding is set aside.

I am in full agreement with the argument raised by the counsel for the appellant as the same is supported by the law laid down in the case of Karam Singh (supra) because the facts, mentioned in the plaint, in the aforecited case, were the bundle of facts on which the plaintiff based his right to relief against the defendant, therefore, it is covered by clause (c) of Section 20 of the CPC. It is a well settled law that the territorial jurisdiction has to be determined on the basis of the pleadings contained in the plaint and not on the basis of stand taken by the defendant in the written statement. Thus, the second question with regard to territorial jurisdiction is also decided in favour of the appellant.

Before parting with the judgment, it is necessary to be highlighted that there is no denying to the fact that the plaintiff has proved the School Leaving Certificate, issued by Government Primary School, Morkheri (District Rohtak) as exhibit P1, in which, his date of birth, has been mentioned as 05-05-1980 and date of admission as 28-04-2006, therefore, it is impossible that the plaintiff would have been given admission in Government Primary School, Morkheri at the age of six months, if the incorrect date of birth 01-11-1985 is taken into consideration. It is also found as a fact that Exhibit P-1 is not forged. It is also an established fact that the father of the plaintiff had died on 13-04-1983, as per document Exhibit P-2 which is the Death Certificate.

Therefore, the plaintiff could not have been born on 01-11-1985 i.e. two years seven months after the death of his father, especially when his mother had not got remarried. Therefore, the incorrect date of birth in the record of the plaintiff is stigmatic and needs to be declared as illegal by the Civil Court. It is nobodys case that by virtue of the correction in date of birth, the plaintiff has obtained any benefit. It is basically to put the record straight.

In view of the above discussion, the present appeal is thus allowed and the judgment and decree of both the Courts below are, hereby, set aside and the suit of the plaintiff is decreed as prayed for.

No costs.

(RAKESH KUMAR JAIN)
Judge

Punjab University chain fast for central status completes one month

CHANDIGARH: The faculty and students of Punjab University Chandigarh are determined to take their agitation for central status to varsity to a logical end even as the chain fast, at the call given by Joint Action Committee, Tuesday completed one month.

Nearly seven thousand people have visited the site of dharna during the last one month to express their solidarity. Nearly 250 teachers (that included deans, chairpersons and fellows), along with 85 students/ research scholars and 9 members of the technical staff have so far sat on the chain fast.

Manjit Singh secretary of Punjab University Teachers Association said that Joint Action Committee has been making relentless efforts to achieve their goal. With the passage of every day the resentment against the political indifference of the state and central government is spreading, within and outside the campus, and new sections are extending their support to the ongoing agitation.

The members of AC have met politicians across the parties and formed a conclusion that Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal should call an all party meeting to resolved the tangle. He said that Punjab government was unnecessarily opposing central status for the Punjab University.

Tuesday even the lawyers from the High Court volunteered to sit on the chain fast as most of them are P.U. alumni and feel deeply hurt to find their former teachers sitting by the roadside in such a harsh weather to demand financial security for P.U as Punjab Government has failed to fulfill its promise of 40 per cent funding during the last one decade.

JAC leadership is receiving calls from different departments expressing solidarity with the agitation along with the offer to sit on the fast through the summer vacation in case the politicians refuge to budge from their present position. To begin with a group of ten former students have decided to sit on the fast on May 10, 2008 as a token of respect for the agitating community on the campus.

Those who sat on the fast Tuesday were Prof. Akhtar Mahmood, Dr Dinesh Talwar, both Fellow Panjab University, Prof. Rupinder Tewari, Department of Bio-technology, Dr. Kewal Singh, Assistant Director Sports, Sh Ajay Kumar, a research scholar from the department of English.

In a separate statement PUTA president Prof. A.S. Ahluwalia condemned the recent violence on the campus. The peace on the campus for a healthy academic environment is a basic pre-requisite and should not be allowed to disturb at any cost, said Prof. Ahluwalia.

At the same time PUTA condemns the burning of effigy of a respected colleague of UILS by a group of students Monday. We should work together to uphold the dignity of teacher-taught relation and in no way let it be degraded to petty politics, said Prof Ahluwalia.

Fitness centre will help PU students, employees relax

Chandigarh, May 06 Professor R C Sobti, Vice-chancellor, Panjab University inaugurated a gym for the female employees and students of Panjab University at the Jawahar Lal Nehru Multipurpose Sports Complex today.
Various machines like the nine-station multi gym, computerised treadmills, motorised massagers, blood circulation machines have been installed at this centre. It has also installed magnetic bikes and ergo-meters.

Professor Sobti said that this centre would help the students and employees who always under stress.

PUSU submits memorandum, demands resignation of UILS director

Chandigarh, May 06 The PUSU members submitted a memorandum to Professor R C Sobti, Vice Chancellor, Panjab University demanding the resignation of Dr R S Grewal, Director, University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS) today.
They said he had failed to keep the dignity of his position as he refused to join the police investigations regarding an attack on Simrandeep Sandhu, a third year law student, by the members of the Students’ Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU).

The memorandum states that the decision of the UILS staff not to participate in the police investigation indicates that the university authorities are not bothered about the students and also reflects on the security arrangements at the university.

Tejpal Singh Cheema, president PUSU said, “The director’s refusal to comment on the incident and his rude behaviour raises questions regarding his authority. If the university authorities act in the same way, the students will loose faith in them.”

The PUTA has also condemned the burning of effigy of a respected colleague of UILS by a group of students yesterday. “We should work together to uphold the dignity of teacher-taught relation and in no way let it be degraded to petty politics,” said Prof Ahluwalia.

University Institute of Fashion Technology and Vocational Development (UIFT and VD)

CHANDIGARH: The students of University Institute of Fashion Technology and Vocational Development (UIFT & VD), Panjab University, Chandigarh organized its Annual Function "Rampage - 2008" on the premises of University.

The event was full of fun and frolic with dances, singing, mimicry and many other interesting games by the staff and students.

Prizes were given away for competition held during the year. Aarti Kashyap got all rounder students best prize. Menu bagged prize for the Best Initiator and Sapna Nanda got the most Stylish Title. Meenakshi got the first prize in designing competition while Komal scored second position.

All the students were given the founder batch shields.

Dr. Sween, Coordinator of the department of UIFT & VD, while speaking on the occasion, said that fashion is growing industry and there is lot of scope for employment in buying, export houses as merchandisers and entrepreneurs.

Dr. Rita Kant, a senior faculty member, said that new admission shall begin in the month of June on the basis of aptitude test. Amandeep Kaur, member ofthe faculty was behind the hosting of the show according to Dr. Sween, Coordinator, University Institute of Fashion Technology and Vocational Development, P.U.

protest against Dr R S Grewal, Director, Panjab University at the University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS)

Chandigarh, May 05 Members of the Panjab University Students Union (PUSU) held a protest against Dr R S Grewal, Director, Panjab University at the University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS) on Monday. They were protesting against an attack on Simrandeep Sandhu, a student of the department, who was assaulted in the examination hall.

The students said the director’s decision of not assisting the police in the investigations was incorrect.

Panjab University Students Union President Tejpal Singh Cheema said, “While the university claims to spend lakhs on the security, the incident shows complete lack of arrangements. The students of the varsity are feeling insecure.”

They demanded that Harpreet Singh Multani, president of the students organisation, Panjab University, who has been named as the main accused in the FIR, be rusticated

PU syndicate calls meeting to beef up security on varsity campus

Chandigarh, May 04 The attack on Simrandeep Sandhu, a student of the University Institute of Legal Studies, Panjab University in the examination centre yesterday, has brought forth the loopholes in the varsity’s security system.
The assailants managed to enter the campus by jumping the wall behind the law department.

As the height of the wall is very low, it was easy for the assailants to attack Sandhu and escape from the same route.

Besides the three main entries and exits, there are a number of entry and exit points which are unmanned and anybody can easily sneak in or run away unchecked.

These are the gates through which miscreants can flee easily. These gates have proved to be a cause of concern during the students’ vouncil elections before. One of the gates lead to a nearby gurudwara, the other is facing Sector 15.

In addition to the tightening of the security system at the main gates, the University authority will need to plug in these loopholes to avoid any such incidents in the future.

To discuss the same, the PU syndicate held an emergency meeting today to assess the law and order situation on the campus.

The Syndicate unanimously accepted the recommendations of the Committee constituted by the Vice-Chancellor R C Sobti and authorised him to take action.

Recommendations by the committee
* Students, who have been identified in the FIR, should be suspended immediately till further orders, their entry into the campus should be banned with immediate effect and they should be expelled from the university hostels.
* The students who belong to the affiliated colleges of the Panjab University, whose names have been identified in the FIR, should face same action as prescribed for students in PU.
* The students who have been identified in the FIR should be fined at least Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000 in accordance with the gravity of their offence.
* A high-powered Disciplinary Standing Committee should be constituted by the university to resolve such incidents and give its recommendations within one month’s time.
* The parents of the identified students should be informed immediately and they should be asked to give an undertaking on an affidavit with regard to the good conduct of their wards.
* All the CCTV cameras installed on the campus should be inspected once in fifteen days and the recordings (weekly) should be reviewed. The information should be given to the Security Officer. The recordings of the cameras should be preserved for at least one month.
* The boundary wall of the University close to UIPS, UILS, Boys Hostels 6, 7 should be strengthened immediately.
* The Committee strongly felt the need of the Student Counselling Cell, which should periodically organise lectures, motivational workshops. The Cell should get the Student Council involved in such activities.

Student stabbed during PU exam

Chandigarh, May 03 PU: Police book 4 youths including SOPU president
In a shocking incident, a law student of Panjab University was attacked with swords and rods by around eight assailants as he was writing the sixth semester exam in the classroom here today. The assailants jumped the wall of the campus from the backside of the University Institute of Legal Studies (UILS).

Simrandeep Singh Sandhu, who received injuries on the back and stomach, was rushed to a hospital here in a serious condition. The police have booked four persons, including the president of the Student Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU) Harpreet Singh Multani in a case of attempt to murder, rioting, trespassing and causing injuries under Sections 307, 452, 506, 148 and 149 of the IPC.

Sandhu was booked in a case of attempt to murder and rioting on March 28 this year when he, along with four other members, had allegedly attacked Multani and two of his acquaintances. He was out on bail and the other group attacked him to take revenge, the sources said.

The incident occurred at around 9.45 am when the exams were being conducted. The assailants, armed with swords and baseball bats, barged into the classroom, pulled out the student and attacked him in the presence of the teacher, chairperson of the law department and 40 other students. The assailants fled after stabbing the student several times. The chairperson of the law department S K Garewal, who tried to intervene, also received minor injuries on his forehead during the attack.

The police have booked eight persons, including Harpreet Singh Multani, Gursewak, Vikramjeet and Jhujar. Other persons who have been booked are yet to be identified, the police said. No arrests were made till the filing of this report.

Sandhu’s father, Harjinder Singh, said he last talked to his son at 9 am and wished him good luck. Appalled at the incident, Singh said it’s the first time in the history of the university that such a violent incident has taken place inside a classroom. He said they had informed the police that they feared such violence and condemned the lackadaisical security measures at the university.

“If in the presence of so many people my son was attacked and the assailants managed to escape right under the nose of the police and the security people, where should we go” he said.

Sandhu is a member of Panjab University Student Union (PUSU). He was earlier a member of SOPU and changed his party some time back. Old rivalry between the two groups is the main reason for the violence, the police said. Police have arrested four accused Gursewak Singh, Jujhar Singh Garewal, Bikramjeet alias Babloo and Harpreet Singh Multani.

“The policemen deployed in the campus were taking rounds of the nearby law department at the time of the incident. We had taken adequate security measures but never thought the attack could have taken place once the exam began,” Ramesh Chander, SHO, Sector 11 police station, said.

PU V C blames colleges for delay in results

Ludhiana, May 02 Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Dr R C Sobti blamed the colleges for RL (result late) cases saying that colleges defer the dispatch of assessments and that causes unnecessary delay in results.
“The colleges and teachers should understand that the university cannot and should not be blamed for the delay in results. Many a time the RL cases happen due to the drawbacks of the colleges and then we cannot do anything,” he said.

Dr Sobti was speaking during the convocation ceremony at the SCD Government College in the city. He became charged up during his speech when reacting to a charter of demands put forth by the college.

“I will make the results hundred per cent RL free but for that I need the colleges and teachers to cooperate. I cannot do that all by myself since everyone is required to perform their roles well on time,” he said.

“We achieved 95 per cent RL-free results last year and this year I want to minimise the gap in order to achieve 100 per cent RL-free results.” As per the directions to the colleges this session, they were asked to send the assessment schedules latest by April 6.

He added that the university had received the assessments from nearly 99 per cent of the colleges on time. “And the colleges that have not done so will be taken to task for the delay.”

While replying to a question on question papers of a few classes being out of the syllabus, he said, “About 735 papers are set every year. So mistakes may creep in. But it is the duty of the teachers to be sure about including the questions from the syllabus. And they are responsible for it. The board of studies is looking into the matter and I can assure you that no student will suffer because of this. The students will definitely be provided with grace marks for the same.”

Exams likely to be postponed

The V-C also hinted at postponement of the annual examinations scheduled to be held on May 12. In fact, the exams were earlier scheduled to be held on April 8 but were postponed to May 12 due to the strike by the government and private colleges teachers’ unions. As the college teachers on examination duties will be involved in the Zila Parishad election, the postponement is being considered as one of the options. The V-C has also talked to the education secretary about the matter. “The V-C has said that either the teachers will be exempted from poll duty or the May 12 exam will be postponed,” a teacher said.

High court vacates stay on retirement of 50 PU teachers

Chandigarh, May 1 In a major blow to around 50 teachers and employees of various colleges affiliated to the Panjab University in Chandigarh and the Panjab Agricultural University (PAU), the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Thursday vacated the stay on their retirement.
The teachers, who were to retire after 60, were continuing on their jobs due to the stay granted on their retirement by the High Court in 2007.

The teachers had filed a petition for extending their retirement age from 60 to 62 years.

The latest decision by the Division bench comprising Justice Ashutosh Mohunta and Justice Kanwaljit Singh Ahluwalia would lead to the teachers losing their jobs. Only an interim stay from the Supreme Court could help the affected teachers to get a breather.

The High Court, however, is yet to give its verdict in the case as today’s orders was only confined to the question as to whether a stay should be granted on their retirement.

In 2007, the stay on the retirement was given by a Division bench comprising Justice K S Garewal and Justice Daya Chaudhary.

Various petitions demanding extension in retirement age from 60 to 62 years were filed in the High Court. Two such petitions were filed by Guru Teg Bahadur College for Women, Hoshiarpur and a girls’ college in Ludhiana. Both the colleges affiliated to Panjab University had also sought extension in the retirement age of their principals. The Panjab University, however, had strongly objected to the grant of extension and had turned down the proposal sent by the colleges.

Prof Rajan Gaur, Vice President PUTA sits on Hunger Strike

Chandigarh:1 May:JAC in its efforts to persuade political leadership of the region across parties on the issue of central university status for P.U. today met Sh Satyapal Jain, former Member Parliament, and member National Executive Committee, BJP and explained him how Panjab University is being made an arena of political tug-of-war by different parties. The delegation submitted him the copy of appeal whereby the support of his party to the demand for central university status for Panjab University was sought. Since BJP is part of the Punjab Government the support from BJP is of crucial importance, explained the delegation.

In response Sh Jain assured the unconditional support to the demand for central university not only from Punjab unit of BJP but also from all the BJP Members in Parliament in case the Hon’ble Prime Minister calls an all-party meeting. He also promised to write the same in a letter to the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh. He said that Panjab University should have been declared Institute of National Importance long back owing to its contribution to the entire world. He extended his support to the ongoing chain fast and also expressed desire to join it on Saturday, that is, on 3rd May.

Prof Rajan Gaur, Vice President PUTA, and one of the volunteers of today’s chain fast, expressed his satisfaction over the positive response of leaders of Punjab Government during the last couple of days. However striking a cautious note Prof. Gaur maintained that the process of dialogue needs to be intensified and public posturing of political leaders cannot be taken on its face value. His colleagues in the Department of Anthropology, Prof. R.N. Vashisht, Prof. A.K. Sinha and Dr. Gayathri Pathmanathan along with a research scholar Mr. Sukhbir Singh sat on the chain fast braving the heat. Prof. A.S. Ahluwalia, Chairman, JAC speaking from the Dharna Site appealed Punjab political leadership to work positively for the upliftment of higher education of which Punjab University is the natural leader in the region.

Meanwhile on Monday, 5th May 2008, Teacher-Senators from the Campus of Panjab University have volunteered to join the chain fast and register their protest against the undue delay in declaring P.U. a central university.

Date Sheet for Panjab University Examination 2008

Chandigarh, 30 Apr: Date Sheet for the Panjab University Examination-2008 is Sent all the affiliated colleges and private students. If any student not received date sheet till yet than click the following link to get the date sheet of all the departments of Panjab University:

Date Sheet 2008 (Panjab University)

JASWINDER SINGH Vs PUNJAB UNIVERSITY CHD AND ORS CWP 6543 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.M.Nos.8195-97 of 2008 and

Date of Decision:28.04.2008.

Jaswinder Singh
.....Petitioner
versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others
.....Respondents.

CORAM:
HONBLE MR.JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA AND
HONBLE MR.JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA.

Present:
Mr.G.P.S.Bal, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Mr.Gagneshwar Walia, Advocate, for respondents No.2 and 4.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA, J.(Oral)
C.M.No.8196 of 2008
C.M. is allowed and written statement filed on behalf of respondents No.2 and 4 is taken on record.

C.M.No.8197 of 2008
C.M. is allowed and photocopy of Annexure A-3 is taken on
record.

C.M.No.8195 of 2008 and
C.W.P.No.6543 of 2008
Main case is preponed from 06.05.2008 to today.

Learned counsel for the petitioner contends that he may be allowed to withdraw the writ petition.

Dismissed as withdrawn.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

PARMINDER KAUR AND ANR Vs PUNJAB UNIVERISTY AND ORS CWP 5336 of 2008

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: April 1, 2008

PARMINDER KAUR AND ANOTHER ...PETITIONERS
VERSUS
PANJAB UNIVERSITY THROUGH ITS REGISTRAR ...RESPONDENTS AND OTHERS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA.
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA.
PRESENT:
MR. MANPREET SINGH, ADVOCATE FOR THE PETITIONERS.

ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA, J.(ORAL)
The petitioners have impugned the orders (Annexures P-24 and P-25) vide which they have been relieved from service. The petitioners were appointed as Lecturers in Hindi and Music respectively. The appointment letter of petitioner No.1 has been annexed as Annexure P-7.

Learned counsel submits that the appointment letter of petitioner No.2 is also similar to petitioner No.1. As per the appointment letter, the petitioners were appointed as Lecturers on probation. They have been relieved from service before the expiry of their probation period. The contention of the counsel for the petitioners is that the termination of the services of the petitioners is mala fide and punitive in nature.

We have perused the appointment letter of the petitioners as well as the order of relieving them from service and a perusal of the same does not show that the authorities have acted in any mala fide or punitive manner against the petitioners. They have relieved them from service as per their appointment letters.

No merit. Dismissed.

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE

(KANWALJIT SINGH AHLUWALIA)
JUDGE

SUDESH KUMAR Vs UOI and ORS Civil Writ Petition 7227 CAT of 2003

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH
...

Date of Decision: March 25, 2008.

Sudesh Kumar ... Petitioner
VERSUS
Union of India and others ... Respondents

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE HEMANT GUPTA.
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE MOHINDER PAL.

1. Whether Reporters of Local papers may be allowed to see the judgment ?

2. To be referred to the Reporters or not ?

3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest ?

Present:
Mr. V.K. Sharma, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Ms. Anjali Kukkar, Advocate, for the respondents.
-.-

MOHINDER PAL, J.
In this petition filed under Articles 226 / 227 of the Constitution of India, the petitioner has prayed for issuance of a writ in the nature of certiorari, thereby quashing the order dated April 02, 2003 (Annexure P-1) passed by the Central
Administrative Tribunal, Chandigarh Bench, Chandigarh (hereinafter referred to as `the Tribunal') whereby Original Application No.933- PB-2002 filed by the petitioner was dismissed affirming the order dated May 01, 2001 (Annexure P-3) dismissing the petitioner from service with immediate effect and the order
dated August 16, 2002 (annexed with Annexure P-4) declining the appeal of the petitioner against the order dated May 01, 2001 (Annexure P-3).

The petitioner was appointed as Clerk Grade-II against reserved vacancy of Scheduled Tribe in the office of Station Director, Commercial Broadcasting Service, Radio Kashmir, Srinagar, vide order dated November 16, 1976. At the time of appointment, he submitted a Scheduled Tribe Certificate dated
August 21, 1975 (Annexure P-9) purportedly issued by the Sub Divisional Officer (Civil), Ludhiana. On receipt of a complaint that the Scheduled Tribe Certificate submitted by the petitioner was bogus, the respondents referred the matter to the office of Deputy Commissioner, Ludhiana, for investigation.

The office of Deputy Commissioner, Ludhiana, informed the Deputy Director
(Administration), Doordarshan Kendra, Jalandher, that as per official records, no such Scheduled Tribe Certificate was issued to the petitioner. It was further informed that the Scheduled Tribe Certificate dated August 21, 1975 (Annexure P-9) was bogus and forged one. The petitioner, by submitting the aforesaid bogus certificate belonging to Scheduled Tribe Category, also got the benefit of age relaxation of five years admissible to Scheduled Tribe Candidates. At the time of his appointment, his age was 28 years and 10 months whereas the upper age limit for general category candidates was 25 years.

Thus, the petitioner got appointment in service by submitting a bogus and forged certificate of belonging to Scheduled Tribe. For getting appointment, the petitioner had also submitted an attested copy of purported original certificate of Higher Secondary Examination (Annexure P-11) showing his date of birth as December 01, 1952. On receipt of a complaint that the petitioner had not given his correct age, the matter was referred to the Controller of Examinations, Punjab University, Chandigarh, by the respondents. The Controller of Examinations, Punjab University, Chandigarh, vide letter dated April 09, 1997,
informed that the petitioner had passed the Higher Secondary (Commerce Group) Examination in March, 1964, against Roll No.79925 by getting 801 marks out of 1850. Along with the letter, a duplicate certificate in relation to the passing of the Higher Secondary Examination by the petitioner was also enclosed.

His date of birth in the certificate was stated to be December 01, 1947. The petitioner was, thus, overage since his age was more than 25 years at the time of joining the service, but by submitting a bogus certificate of belonging to Scheduled Tribe, he got age relaxation of 5 years. He thus not only submitted a

forged certificate belonging to Scheduled Tribe Category but also submitted a fabricated copy of the Higher Secondary Examination pass certificate showing his date of birth as December 01, 1952.

Disciplinary proceedings were initiated against the petitioner on the following articles of charge:-

“ARTICLE-I.
That Shri Sudesh Kumar at the time of his appointment as Clerk Grade-II in the office of the Station Director (Commercial), Commercial Broadcasting Service, Radio Kashmir, Srinagar, had produced false Caste Certificate dated 21.8.1975 issued and signed under seal by Sub Divisional Officer (Civil), Ludhiana. The said certificate had never been issued by the concerned authorities.

By the above act Shri Sudesh Kumar had failed to maintain absolute integrity and had acted in a manner unbecoming of a government servant thereby violating Rule 3 (1)(i) and (iii) of C.C.S (Conduct) Rules, 1964.

ARTICLE -II.
That the said Shri Sudesh Kumar at the time of his appointment as Clerk Grade-II in the office of Station Director (Commercial), Commercial Broadcasting Service, Radio Kashmir, Srinagar, had produced false certificate with detailed marks bearing No.15490 dated Nov. 11, 1975 and 3.12.1974 wherein his date of birth has been shown as 1.12.1952. His actual date of birth
is 1.12.1947 as per Punjab University's Duplicate Certificate No.8375 dated
9.5.1997.

By the above act Shri Sudesh Kumar had failed to maintain absolute integrity and had acted in a manner unbecoming of a government servant thereby violating Rule 3 (1)(i) and (iii) of C.C.S (Conduct) Rules, 1964.”

Charge sheet was served upon the petitioner. He submitted reply. Regular inquiry was held against him. Mr. R.P. Munjal, A.S.E submitted his inquiry report dated February 26, 2001, holding the petitioner guilty of both the charges. The findings arrived at in the inquiry report was accepted. Show
cause notice was issued to the petitioner. His reply was received.

The competent authority i.e Director, Prasar Bharti, Broadcasting Corporation of India, Doordarshan Kendra, vide his detailed order dated May 01, 2001 (Annexure P-3) dismissed the petitioner from service with immediate effect. Appeal preferred against the order (Annexure P-3) was dismissed by the Director General, Doordarshan, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, New Delhi, as per an elaborate and well-reasoned order dated August 16, 2002 (Annexure P-4). These orders were upheld by the Tribunal vide order dated April 02, 2003 (Annexure P-1) while dismissing the Original Application filed by the petitioner. The Tribunal also observed that taking into consideration the facts and circumstances of the case, the respondent-Department may consider the feasibility of initiating criminal proceedings against the petitioner.

After hearing the learned counsel for the parties and going through the records of the case, we do not find any ground to interfere in the impugned orders by exercising our writ jurisdiction. No convincing argument could be advanced by
the learned counsel for the petitioner. As stated above, the respondent-authorities observed all rules and regulations governing disciplinary proceedings. No illegality was committed in imposing the penalty of dismissal from service on the petitioner. It is also worth noticing that during the course of disciplinary proceedings, the petitioner made requests for change of the Inquiry Officers as well as the Presenting Officers. On his requests, the Inquiry Officers and the Presenting Officers were changed thrice. All excuses and pretexts appear to have been used by the petitioner to prolong the inquiry so that he could continue in service as long as possible. The petitioner continued
in the job for about 25 years which he had secured through fraudulent means. He got the salary for all these years, got promotion and enjoyed all other perks, to which he was not entitled at all.

Consequently, we dismiss this writ petition being without any merit.

( HEMANT GUPTA )
JUDGE

( MOHINDER PAL )
JUDGE

Central Status for Panjab University

Strange and contradictory are the ways the state governments pursue their policies, especially those dealing with core subjects like education and healthcare.

The Punjab government, for example, wants more central universities in the state but has been opposing tooth and nail the idea of converting Panjab University (PU) into a central university. Reason: it may compromise the state’s claim over Chandigarh.

Sources in the Punjab government confirm that communication for setting new central university in the state has been received and the process to work out modalities set in motion.

It may be pertinent to mention here that last year the Prime Minister had announced setting up 30 new central universities in the country. Initial plans suggested that besides upgrading the PU to a central university, Punjab would get one more central university, probably in the Malwa belt.

But the opposition to the PU becoming a central university or a totally centrally funded university has been intriguing.

“There is no substance in arguments advanced by the Punjab government as the change in its status from inter-state body to a central university would in no way affect its claim over the capital built for the state of Punjab,” maintain leaders of the Punjab University Teachers Association (PUTA).

“Apprehensions expressed by the Punjab government are unfounded, without logic and least convincing in a democracy where the central government will never ever link status of the university to a territorial dispute. Many of us support inclusion of Chandigarh in Punjab. Both the Punjab government and the PU will be major beneficiaries if the Centre declares it a central university,” argue the PUTA leaders.

The PU has a unique status. Of its annual budget of over Rs 130 crore, nearly 40 to 45 per cent comes from its own resources. It gets an annual grant of Rs 38 crore from the Centre, besides Rs 16 crore from the Punjab government. Earlier, the central government used to give 8 per cent annual increase in its allocation to the varsity. But once the Punjab government froze its annual finance support at Rs 16 crore, the Centre, too, stopped releasing additional 8 per cent incremental funds.

Its chancellor continues to be the Vice-President of India. While other central universities like Aligarh, Banaras, Delhi, Tezpur, Nagaland and Jamia Millia are getting Rs 20 crore or more in the 10th Plan allocation. Compared to them, the PU was promised Rs 4.89 crore, of which it actually got only Rs 3.91 crore.

Established by an Act of Parliament after the Partition, it is one of four federal universities of the country. Since the Reorganisation Act of 1966 gave the PU a unique character of inter-state body, it had semi-federal status, with the chancellor being the Vice-President of the country. Now when Haryana has no more stakes in the university - neither any college affiliation nor any annual grants for the university - it is Punjab and the Centre who provide the funding in 60:40 ratio.

With sources of funding remaining limited or even shrinking, it finds itself in a poor fiscal health to sustain its ongoing programmes. Not only that, it’s old and aging buildings, built 50 years ago, are long overdue for repair and maintenance. Laboratories, too, need upgradation.

The only ray of hope was kindled when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announced the setting up new central universities. Being an alumnus of the university, PUTA initiated a signature campaign last year to persuade the Union Government to declare PU a central university.

Teachers want the Punjab government to review its decision and benefit from the central university scheme before it’s too late. Funds saved here could be utilised in other universities of Punjab.

ABHIJEET PARTAP SINGH CHAUDHARY Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORS Civil Writ Petition 18731 of 2007

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh.

Civil Writ Petition No.18731 of 2007.

Date of decision:14-2-2008

Abhijeet Partap Singh Chaudhary. ...Petitioner.
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others.
...Respondents.
...
Coram:
Hon'ble Mr. Ashutosh Mohunta.
Hon'ble Mr. Justice K. C. Puri.
...
Present;
Mr. Atul Nehra Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr.Sudeep Mahajan Advocate for respondents.
...
K. C. Puri, J.
Judgment.
The petitioner has filed this Civil Writ Petition under
Articles 226/227 of the Constitution of India with a prayer for issuance of a writ in the nature of Mandamus to admit him to 5th semester, B.A, LL.B. (Hons.) ( 5 years integrated course) of Panjab University, Chandigarh and further issue him roll number for appearing in 5th semester examination.

The petitioner is a student of B.A,LL.B (Hons.), ( 5 years integrated course). The first semester started in the year 2005-2006.

The aforesaid course comprised of 10 semesters. In one year, a student is required to appear in two semesters, each semester consisting of five papers.

In a year, a student is required to clear 6 papers out of 10 papers of two semesters and in two years, a student is required to clear 12 papers out of 20 enabling him to be promoted to the next year/semester.

The petitioner has passed his first and second semester successfully and appeared in the third semester which commenced in the year 2006-
2007. The examination of third semester was held in the month of December, 2006 . The petitioner cleared only one paper out of five papers of third semester. Meaning thereby, the petitioner had cleared 11 papers out of 15 papers. The petitioner was promoted to the fourth semester. As per rules and regulations, a student has to clear 60% of the
total papers. The petitioner appeared in the examination of fourth semester which was held in April, 2007 and in that examination, the petitioner could not clear even a single paper. The petitioner was not satisfied with the result of fourth semester. So, he applied for reevaluation of the papers of the fourth semester on 21.8.2007. As the fifth semester was going to commence so the petitioner along with
other similarly situated students submitted representation dated 18.10.2007 before the Vice Chancellor for declaration of reevaluation result. The re-evaluation result of the petitioner was declared on 27.11.2007 which was affixed on the notice board on 3.12.2007. The petitioner was declared pass in paper-1 i.e. Paper of English and paper-3 i.e. Paper of Law of Contract. Meaning thereby that till fourth semester, the petitioner had cleared 13 papers out of 20 papers. As per stipulation for further promotion to the fifth semester, a student has to clear 12 papers out of 20 papers whereas in the case of
petitioner, the petitioner had duly cleared 13 papers out of 20 papers.

It is further averred that vide interim order dated
5.12.2007,similarly situated students were allowed to appear in the fifth semester examination of B.A, LL.B.( Hons.) (5 years integrated course).

Respondent Nos. 1 to 3 filed joint written reply in which it is pleaded that the petitioner had cleared 11 papers out of total of 20 papers and he was to clear 12 papers out of 20 papers for admission to the fifth semester and accordingly the petitioner was not eligible for promotion to the fifth semester. It was admitted that the petitioner was declared pass in two papers and subsequently fulfilled the requirement of clearing 60% of papers upto fourth semester for promotion to the fifth semester.

However, University Regulation No.12 under the
heading 'Re-evaluation of Answer Books' at page 398 of Panjab University Calendar', Volume III, 2005 bars admission on the basis of re-evaluation result after 15th of October of the relevant year, in a course having semester examination. The fifth semester teaching schedule for session 2007-2008 was over on 21.11.2007 and even the examination of the fifth semester was over on 19.12.2007. So, the fifth
semester had come to an end when the process of examination thereof was over. Now, the fifth semester shall commence only in July, 2008 and the examination for the same shall take place in November- December,2008. In view of the said situation, it is not possible to promote the petitioner in the fifth semester. The petitioner cannot be promoted straight-away to sixth semester, firstly, because there is no provision or Regulation in the University Calendar which provides for admission straight-away into the sixth semester without the student even taking admission in the fifth semester. The students who have not put in the requisite percentage of attendance as prescribed by the Bar
Council of India under its rules are not eligible for appearing in the examination. If any student is permitted to appear in the examination without requisite percentage of attendance, it is a clear violation of rules of the Bar Council of India and the students who obtain degree without putting the required percentage of attendance will not be eligible for enrollment as an Advocate.

In the replication, it is pleaded that the petitioner was wrongly declared re-appear in two papers of fourth semester and he was declared pass in those two papers on 27.11.2007. Since the University failed to declare result within reasonable time, it cannot punish the petitioner for its own fault or delay by referring to Regulation 12. Similarly situated student Mr. Sehraj Singh Virk of the petitioner batch approached this Court by way of Civil Writ Petition
No.16952 of 2007 for permission to study in fifth/sixth semester of course. The said student was allowed to join the course and take examination from 5.12.2007 by the University on the issuance of notice of motion. Similarly situated student had also been permitted by the University to join the fifth semester after 15.10.2007 without applying the bar in regulation No.12 and, therefore, the petitioner cannot be barred.

We have heard learned counsel for the parties and have gone through the record of the case.

So far as facts of the case are concerned, the same are not in dispute. The petitioner was admitted in B.A, LL.B.(Hons.) ( (5 years integrated course) in the first semester in the year 2005-2006. The aforesaid course comprised of 10 semesters.

In one year, a student is required to appear in two semesters, each semester consisting of five papers. In one year, a student is required to clear 6 papers out of 10 papers of the two semesters in the first year and similar number of papers in the second year i.e. he has to clear 12 papers out of 20 papers
in the first two years for his promotion to the fifth semester. The petitioner was declared successful in 11 papers out of 20 papers and he was further declared successful in two more papers on the basis of result of re-evaluation. So, he was declared successful in 13 papers out of 20 papers in the fourth semester and as such he was eligible for
promotion to the fifth semester. It is also not disputed that the petitioner applied on 21.8.2007 for re-evaluation and the re-evaluation result was declared on 27.11.2007. To our mind, the result of reevaluation shall relate to the date when the original examination was held. The petitioner has been deprived of his admission in the fifth semester on the ground that he has not cleared 12 papers out of 20 papers upto fourth semester. Delay has occurred on account of the fact that the University had failed to declare the result of re-evaluation of
the answer sheets within the stipulated time. The petitioner is not to be blamed. The petitioner would suffer an irreparable loss if he is made to loose one academic year. In authority Rupali Mamta Jain Versus The Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, 2000(1). S.C.T 301, a Single Bench of this Court held that the University cannot be permitted to take advantage of its own wrong. A Division Bench of our own High Court in Deepa Versus Maharishi Dayanand University and others, 2003 (2) Recent Services Judgments 129 held that Gold Medal cannot be with-held on the ground that the numbers of the petitioner have
increased due to re-evaluation.

In this case, the learned counsel for the respondents has taken objection that since the petitioner would not be able to attend the classes of fifth semester and the requirement of fixed number of lectures as per rules and regulations of Bar Council of India would not be fulfilled, the petitioner be allowed to join the fifth semester from July, 2008 and the examination of the same shall take place in November/December, 2008. This point has been duly dealt with by a Single Bench of our own High Court in Sandeep Versus Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, 1998(4) SCT 563 in para No.5 of the judgment which is reproduced as under:-

“Shri Gupta, the learned counsel appearing for the
University has, however, argued that the University was in duty bound to follow the Directive Annexure R1/1 issued by the Bar Council of India and as this circular provided that no admission was to be made after the cut off date fixed for admission and as the norms with regard to the attendance of lectures fixed by the Bar Council of India were to be followed, the petition could not succeed. To my
mind this argument lacks merit. It cannot be denied that the directives issued by the Bar Council of India pertaining to the legal profession must be honoured and given full respect but such a Directive cannot displace the University Statutes as the same have statutory force. The resolution of the Bar Council Annexure R1/1 must thus give way to the Ordinance. As already mentioned above Rule 6 of the Ordinance gives a right to a student to seek admission provided certain conditions are fulfilled under that Rule.

Admittedly, the petitioner has complied with the Rules in question.”

The same Regulation of the Bar Council of India, as that of Annexure R1/1 has been relied upon by the counsel for the respondents. So, accepting the above observation, we are of the considered view that the petitioner cannot be allowed to suffer on
account of lapse on the part of the University in delaying the result of re-evaluation. Therefore, we accept this petition and direct the respondent-University to allow the petitioner to join classes of sixth semester forthwith. The respondents shall arrange for extra classes so as to complete the syllabus of fifth semester. The petitioner shall be
allowed to appear in the examinations of fifth and sixth semesters and the remaining un-cleared papers of third and fourth semesters in accordance with the Rules of the University.

( K. C. Puri )
Judge

(Ashutosh Mohunta )
Judge

TIRLOK CHAND GUPTA Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CHANDIGARH CWP 568 of 2008

In the High Court of Punjab and Haryana at Chandigarh

Date of decision:January 15, 2008

Tirlok Chand Gupta ---Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh ---Respondent

Coram:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE M.M.KUMAR
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE T.P.S.MANN

Present:
Mr.Shireesh Gupta, Advocate, for the petitioner.

M.M.KUMAR, J.
This petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution prays for quashing the proceedings initiated by the Estate Officer, Panjab University, Chandigarh vide order dated 21.9.2007 (Annexure P-11) on the ground that the Estate Officer, Panjab University has no jurisdiction and the office of the Estate Officer could not be constituted under the provisions of Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971 (for brevity 'the Act'). The petitioner has emphasised that expression 'public premises' has been defined in Section 2(e)2(iii) of the Act to mean any premises belonging to, or taken on lease by, or on behalf of any university established or incorporated by any Central Act. Accordingly, the following question of law has been raised:-

“Whether the Panjab University by virtue of Section 2(e)(2)(iii) is a University established or incorporated by a Central Act so as to entitle to appoint an Estate Officer under Section 3 of the Act. ''

Mr. Shireesh Gupta, learned counsel for the petitioner has vehemently argued that the Panjab University Act of 1947 is an Act passed by the Provincial Legislature and as such it cannot be regarded as a University established or incorporated by a Central Act. According to the
learned counsel once it is so, then the premises belonging to the Panjab University cannot be considered to be public premises within the meaning of Section 2(e)(2)(iii). He has, thus, emphasised that no Estate Officer by the Panjab University can be appointed to initiate proceedings of ejectment against the petitioner.

We have considered the submissions made by learned counsel for the petitioner and the same cannot be accepted in view of express provisions made by Section 72 of the Punjab Reorganization Act, 1966.

According to Section 72 if a body corporate constituted interalia, by or under a State Act for the erstwhile State of Punjab or any part thereof serves the needs of successor States or has become an inter-State body corporate then it should continue to function and operate in those areas subject to such directions as may from time to time be issued by the Central Government. Sub Section 3 of Section 72 expressly clarified that the
provisions of Section 72 are to apply to the Panjab University constituted under Panjab University Act, 1947. Section 72 of the Act reads thus:-

72.General Provisions as to statutory corporations.-

(1) Save as otherwise expressly provided by the
foregoing provisions of this Part, where any body
corporate constituted under a Central Act, State Act or Provincial Act for the existing State of Punjab or any part thereof serves the needs of the successor States or has, by virtue of the provisions of Part II, become an inter-State body corporate, then, the body corporate shall, on and from the appointed day, continue to function and operate in those areas in respect of which it was functioning and operating immediately before that day, subject to such directions as may from time to time be issued by the Central Government, until other provision is made by law in respect of the said body corporate.

(2) Any direction issued by the Central Government under sub-section (1) in respect of any such body corporate may include a direction that any law by which the said body corporate is governed shall, in its application to that body corporate, have effect to such exceptions and modifications as may be specified in the direction.

(3) For the removal of doubt it is hereby declared that the provisions of this section shall apply also to the Panjab University constituted unde the Panjab University Act, 1947, the Punjab Agricultural University constituted Act, 1947, the Punjab Agricultural University constituted under the Punjab Agricultural University Act, 1961, and the Board constituted under the provisions of Part III of the Sikh Gurudawaras Act, 1925.

(4) For the purpose of giving effect to the provisions of this section in so far as it relates to the Panjab University and the Punjab Agricultural University referred to in sub-section (3) the successor States shall make such grants as the Central Government may, from time to time, by order, determine.”

A perusal of Section 72 makes it abundantly clear that even the successor states are to make such grants inter alia for the Panjab University as may be determined by the Central Government from time to time.

The aforesaid question has earlier arisen before a Division Bench of this Court in the case of Gopal Chand versus Panjab University and others 1978(1) Rent Law Reporter 267. The Division Bench repelled the contention that it is not the public premises within the meaning of Section 2(e)(2)(iii) of the Act and held as under:-

“The grievance made in the petition is that the
residential quarters owned by the Panjab University do not fall within the definition of premises as contained in the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971 (hereinafter called the Act) and as such the Estate Officer appointed by the Panjab University had no right to initiate eviction proceedings
against the petitioner.

On his own showing the petitioner was an employee of the Panjab University and had retired from service on 31.3.1977. He was allowed two months' time to vacate the premises and in spite of the expiry of this period of two months he continues to hang on to them. Even if the order passed by the Estate Officer were to be regarded as an irregularity we would not be inclined to interfere because no injustice much less manifest injustice has been caused to the petitioner. The residential accommodation available with the University is needed for its
employees and those who retire are to vacate the same within the period prescribed by the rules. Theaforementioned consideration apart, the University is admittedly a corporation and by virtue of section 72 of the Punjab Re-Organisation Act, 1966, it has to function under the directions issued by the Central Government from time to time. Consequently, it has to be held that the premises in dispute belong to a corporation which is controlled by the Central Government. In this view of the matter, the provisions of the Act would be applicable to the facts of the case and the order passed by the Estate Officer as affirmed
by the learned Addl. District Judge, Chandigarh, in appeal would have to be affirmed. We find not meritin this petition and order the same to be
dismissed.” (emphasis added)

The Full Bench of this Court in the case of Dayanand Anglo Vedic College v. State of Punjab, AIR 1972 PandH 170, has an occasion to consider Section 72 of the Act and numerous observations have been made. We do not wish to go into details of those observations but feel content to observe that the object of the provision was not to give power of governance to the interstate corporations but to make their services
available to the successor States till such time the successor States could make their own arrangements. It is significant that what the University was expected to continue to do was to serve the needs of the successor State, subject to Central Government's directions. Therefore, the appointment of Estate Officer by the University must continue as it would serve the needs of this corporate body.

In the present case relationship of lessor and lessee exists between the University and the petitioner. There are allegations of nonpayment
of rent and the Estate Officer has issued a show cause notice to the petitioner on the eviction petition filed by the University and the matter is pending.

As a sequel to the above discussion, the question is answered against the petitioner. It is accordingly held that the Panjab University is
controlled by the Central Government being an inter-state body corporate.

It is further held that the show cause notice issued to the petitioner on 4.4.2007 (Annexure P-10) does not suffer from any jurisdictional error and the Estate Officer, Panjab University has rightly assumed the power under the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised ccupants)Act, 1971. As the matter is still pending before the Estate Officer, we refrain from expressing any opinion on merits lest it may result in prejudice to the interest of either parties.

The writ petition is accordingly dismissed.

(M.M.KUMAR)
JUDGE

(T.P.S.MANN)
JUDGE

VED PARKASH JHINGAN Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORS CWP 9686 of 2006

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

C.W.P.No.9686 of 2006

Date of Decision : 14.01.2008

Ved Parkash Jhingan .....Petitioner
versus
Panjab University and others .....Respondents

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE HEMANT GUPTA
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE MOHINDER PAL

Present :
Shri Dinesh Kumar, Advocate for the petitioner.
Shri R.N.Raina, Advocate for respondent Nos.4, 6 and 11.
Shri P.C.Chaudhary, Advocate for respondent No.9.

1. Whether Reporters of Local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?

2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?

3. Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

JUDGMENT
HEMANT GUPTA, J.
The challenge in the present writ petition is to the order Annexure P-19 dated 1.3.2006, whereby the claim of the petitioner for assigning seniority from the date of availability of the vacancy meant for direct recruit was declined.

Vide advertisement dated 17.2.1999, one post of Assistant Registrar to be filled up by direct recruitment, was advertised. The vacancy meant by direct recruitment was to fall vacant on 1.5.1999. The petitioner was recommended for appointment pursuant to the interview held on
11.3.2000 for such post. The Senate cancelled the recommendation even when the Syndicate has not considered the recommendation. The decision of the Senate became subject matter of challenge before this Court in a writ petition filed by the petitioner. The writ petition filed by the petitioner was allowed by this Court vide order dated 8.7.2002, Annexure P-3 and liberty was given to the competent authority of the University to take a decision based on record and after due application of mind. At that time, the grievance of the petitioner was that the appointment of the petitioner has been cancelled in contravention of the Rules.

Subsequent to the directions of this Court, the Senate approved the recommendation on 24.8.2004 recommending the petitioner for direct
appointment. The petitioner joined soon thereafter in pursuance of the appointment letter dated 28.8.2004, Annexure P-11.

It is the case of the petitioner that another post, meant to be filled up by promotion, fell vacant in May, 2000. The grouse of the petitioner is that he is entitled to seniority from the date the post meant to be filled up by direct recruitment became available on 1.5.1999 and not from the date of his recruitment in the year 2004. The said claim of the petitioner has been declined by the University by passing a detailed speaking order dated 1.3.2006, Annexure P-19.

The claim of the petitioner for seniority from the date of availability of the post of direct recruit, is based on a judgment of the Hon'ble Supreme Court reported as “Arvinder Singh Bains Versus State of Punjab and others, 2006 (3) RSJ-390” and a Division Bench judgment of this Court passed on 3.2.1997 in Civil Writ Petition No.15424 of 1995, titled as “Dr.H.S.Banyal Versus The Panjab University and another”,
Annexure P-16.

Having heard learned counsel for the parties at some length, we do not find any merit in the present writ petition. The Panjab University
Calendar Rules Vol.III-2005 (hereinafter referred to as the Rules) are the applicable Rules. Rule 15.1 of the Rules reads as under:-

“15.1 An employee shall rank for seniority in the grade according to date of his confirmation.”

Learned counsel for the petitioner referred to Rule 4 (iii) of the Rules, wherein 25% posts of the Assistant Registrars in the University are required to be filled in on the basis of selection after advertisement, whereas 75% of the posts of Assistant Registrars shall be filled in by promotion from amongst the Superintendents and the Personal Assistants on the basis of seniority-cum-merit in the ratio of 4:1. The said Rule 4 (iii) of
the Rules reads as under:-

“4. Procedure of appointment and qualifications for recruitment of Class-A posts:-

iii) Assistant Registrars:-

(a) 25% of the posts of Assistant Registrars in the
University office shall be filled in on the basis of selection after advertisement. The following qualifications for these posts to be filled by selection shall be:-

Essential Desirable

(b) The other 75% of the posts of Assistant
Registrars shall be filled in by promotion from amongst the Superintendents and the Personal Assistants on the basis of senioritycum- merit in the ration of 4:1.

The officiating arrangements, if any, against
these 75% posts be made from the respective
cadres on the basis of seniority-cum-merit in the cadre concerned. In the case of a vacancy against selection post, officiating arrangements be made as under:-

(a) First two vacancies will go to the Superintendents cadre and

(b) The third vacancy will be filled in from P.As. Cadre.

The 25 : 75 ration as at (a) and (b) shall not
be disturbed.

Whenever new posts are created in future i.e. in addition to existing 18 posts (as on 16.11.1990), the first will go to the Superintendents cadre, the second will be filled in by open selection, the third will go to the Superintendents cadre and the fourth to the P.As. Cadre. This pattern shall be
followed in future.”

It is, thus, sought to be contended by learned counsel for the petitioner that since the vacancy meant to be filled up by direct recruitment became available on 1.5.1999 and that 25% of the posts of Assistant Registrars are to be filled in on the basis of selection after advertisement, therefore, according to Rule 4 of the Rules, the petitioner is entitled to seniority from the date when the vacancy became available i.e. on 1.5.1999.

The argument raised by learned counsel for the petitioner that the seniority is to be determined from the date when the vacancy became available, is not sustainable. Rule 15.1. of the Rules itself speaks that an employee shall rank for seniority in the grade according to the date of his confirmation. The seniority points in the Cadre of the Assistant Registrars are not fixed either for the direct recruits or for the promotes.

Therefore, the rotational Rule read by the petitioner in the seniority Rule is not sustainable.

In Arvinder Singh Bains case (supra), the Court was seized of Rule 18 of the Punjab Civil Services (Executive Branch Class-I) Rules, 1976 (hereinafter referred to as the '1976 Rules'). As per the said Rules, the vacancies were required to be filled up from specific source in a slab of 100 vacancies. The appellant, in the aforesaid case, has not sought any ante dated promotion, but sought fixation of inter se seniority of 80 officers i.e. 40 direct recruits and 40 promotees by applying the roster provided for in Rule 18 of 1976 Rules. The Court found that the roster under Rule 18 has to be read with Rule 21 of 1976 Rules for determining the seniority. The decision in the aforesaid case has no application in the present case. There is no Rule corresponding to Rule 18 of 1976 Rules, contemplating roster.

Rule 15.1 of the Seniority Rules contemplates seniority from the date of confirmation. Therefore, the argument raised by learned counsel for the
petitioner that the petitioner is entitled to seniority from the date of availability of vacancy, does not find support from the judgment referred to by him.

The Division Bench judgment of this Court in Dr.H.S.Banyal's case (supra) is again arising out of different facts. This Court found that Dr.H.S.Banyal has been wrongly excluded from the selection by excluding his research work.

Thus, the Court held that the petitioner was qualified for the post and, therefore, his non-selection is unjustified. While considering the order passed by this Court, the Syndicate resolved to grant seniority to Dr.Banyal from the date another appointment was made in pursuance of the same selection process.

In the present case, the petitioner was appointed on 28.8.2004. He was the sole candidate.

Therefore, the petitioner cannot claim seniority
prior to the date of his appointment and from the date when he was not borne on the Cadre.

Thus, we do not find any merit in the present writ petition.

Consequently, the present writ petition is dismissed.

(HEMANT GUPTA)
JUDGE

(MOHINDER PAL)
JUDGE

DALIP KUMAR Versus STATE OF HRY ETC Civil Writ Petition 4292 of 2006

PROF D D BANSAL and OTHERS Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY and OTHERS CWP 4860 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT FOR THE STATES OF PUNJAB and
HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 31.10.2008

Prof. D.D. Bansal and others ...Petitioners
Versus
Panjab University and others ...Respondents

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE RAJAN GUPTA

Present:
Mr. Rajiv Atma Ram Senior Advocate, with
Ms. Sunita Chauhan, Advocate, for the petitioners.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for Panjab University.
Ms. Charu Tuli, Senior DAG, Punjab for State of Punjab.
Mr. Gurpreet Singh and
Mr. Rajiv Sharma, Advocates, for Union of India.

Rajan Gupta, J.
For the detailed reasons mentioned in our judgment of even date in CWP No.8025 of 2007 titled “Dr. A.C. Julka and others Vs. Panjab University and others, this writ petition stands dismissed.

(RAJAN GUPTA)
JUDGE

(ASHUTOSH MOHUNTA)
JUDGE`

AKSHAY CHOPRA Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANOTHER Civil Writ Petition 14253 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of decision: 13.9.2007

Akshay Chopra ... Petitioner
Versus
Punjab University, Chandigarh and another ... Respondents

Present: Mr. Parveen Kumar, Advocate for the petitioner.

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE ADARSH KUMAR GOEL
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE AJAI LAMBA

ADARSH KUMAR GOEL, J
This petition seeks direction for re-evaluation of marks in paper
Operations Research subject of B.Com. Final.

Case of the petitioner is that he appeared in B.Com. Final Examination of the Punjab University, Chandigarh in April, 2007. On 15.7.2007, result was declared, showing compartment in Operations Research (OPR). He sought re-evaluation which was declined on 20.7.2007.

We have heard learned counsel for the petitioner.

It is well settled that absence of provision for re-evaluation cannot be held to be invalid in view of the law laid down by the Hon'ble Supreme Court in Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education and another v. Paritosh Bhupesh Kumarsheth etc., AIR 1984 SC 1543. Reevaluation cannot be allowed as a matter of course unless permissible under the Rules. No special feature has been shown in the present case for deviation from the general Rule.
Accordingly, we do not find any ground to entertain this petition
under Article 226 of the Constitution of India.

Dismissed.

( Adarsh Kumar Goel )
Judge

( Ajai Lamba )
Judge

HARSH BALA TALWAR Versus P B, UNIVERSITY CWP 6167 of 1987

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision : 11.09.2007

Harsh Bala Talwar .....Petitioner
versus
The Punjab University, Chandigarh and others .....Respondents

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE HEMANT GUPTA

Present:
None for the petitioner.
Mr.G.S.Cheema, Sr.DAG, Punjab for the respondents.

JUDGMENT
HEMANT GUPTA, J. (Oral)
The petitioner has sought admission to B.Ed. Course for the session commencing in the year 1987. The grievance of the petitioner is that the candidates who have secured lesser marks than the petitioner, have been admitted for the B.Ed. Course by ignoring the claim of the petitioner.

In reply, filed on behalf of respondent No.3, it has been pointed out that the petitioner has not given the name of the persons who have been admitted having lesser marks than the petitioner. It has been pointed out that if a person with lesser marks belonging to reserved category, has been admitted, the petitioner cannot make grievance of such admission being a general category candidate.

Keeping in view the fact that the petitioner has sought
admission for B.Ed. Course in the year 1987, no substantive relief can be granted to the petitioner in the present writ petition. The facts on record do not lead to an inference that any candidate, junior to the petitioner in merit in the same category, has been granted admission.

In view of the above, I do not find any merit in the present writ petition. The same stands dismissed.

(HEMANT GUPTA)
JUDGE

UTSAV SINGH BAINS Versus STATE OF PB AND ORS

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Criminal Writ Petition No.812 of 2006

Date of Decision: August 08, 2007

Utsav Singh Bains ...Petitioner
VERSUS
State of Punjab and others ...Respondents

1.Whether Reporters of local papers may be allowed to see the judgment?

2. To be referred to the Reporters or not?

3.Whether the judgment should be reported in the Digest?

Present:
Mr.Gurmeet Singh, Advocate, for the petitioner.
Mr.M.C.Berry, Senior DAG, Punjab, for the State.

RANJIT SINGH, J.
Moved by his concern for human rights, a nineteen years old student of law at Panjab University, has filed this petition under Article 226 of the Constitution of India for release of a Pakistan National Rehmat Ali, who, as per the allegations, is continued to be detained in jail despite having completed the sentence awarded to him. Petitioner Utsav Singh Bains received an E-mail dated 24.8.2006 from Pakistan Human Rights Commission disclosing this fact of continuous detention of a Pakistani national, Rehmat Ali. A perusal of the E-mail annexed with the petition as Annexure P-1 shows that wife of said Rehmat Ali claims that her husband was sentenced to eight years rigorous imprisonment, but is still lodged in
Central Jail, Amritsar for more than fifteen years. Grievance further is made in the petition that no efforts are being made to release the detenu and to send him back to his country despite his identity having been established, on being so provided by Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, India. It is also averred that about hundred Pakistani prisoners are still lodged in jails either at Amritsar or Jalandhar despite having completed their respective sentences.

Reference in this regard is also made to a newspaper report published in The Indian Express dated 4.9.2006. Notice of this petition was issued on 7.9.2006. After taking few opportunities, a reply on behalf of the State is filed and it is revealed therefrom that the Pakistani National detained in Central Jail is Akbar Ali son of Rehmat Ali and not Rehmat Ali as mentioned in the petition. Otherwise, it is not disputed that said Akbar Ali has completed his sentence on 3.11.2006 and was released on the said
date and sent to the office of Senior Superintendent of Police, Amritsar for being deported to his native country. Reply further discloses that Senior Superintendent of Police, Amritsar sent him back to Central Jail for keeping him in Transit Camp at the jail as an internee till completion of his deportation process. In fact, said Akbar Ali continues to remain in the confinement of Central Jail Amritsar and thus under detention. Noticing these facts, this court on 9.7.2007 directed Senior Superintendent of Police, Amritsar to take immediate action to deport the detenu to Pakistan as early as possible. When the case was taken up on subsequent dates, it revealed that the process of deporting the detenu was still on and that formalities in this regard were being completed at the level of the Governments.

The net result is that Akbar Ali continued to be detained in jail, though had completed his sentence.

A similar issue came up for consideration before this court through a writ petition No.10069 of 2005 filed by World Human Rights Protection Council, Chandigarh by way of a public interest.

The prayer made in the said petition was for repatriation of about hundred Indian prisoners detailed in Pakistan Jails, who had completed the respective sentence awarded to them by the Pakistan courts. While this writ petition was under consideration before the Ist Division Bench of this court, a letter was received from an Irani National complaining that he was confined in Central Jail, Amritsar despite having completed the sentence of six months awarded to him in the year 1994. This Irani National, thus, was kept under detention even after twelve years of completion of his sentence. Taking note of this serious violation of human rights, the letter was handed over to the counsel for Union of India to have instructions. During the course of the proceedings, it revealed that 29 Indian Nationals were lodged in Pakistani jails in addition to 54 prisoners of war. During the further hearing of the case, an affidavit of D.S.P., Intelligence, Punjab was filed alongwith a list of 89 Pakistani Nationals, who were lodged in various jails in Punjab. 42 amongst this number, as per the affidavit, had completed their sentence and were kept as internees in the Central Jail, Amritsar or Children Home, Faridkot. It was further disclosed that efforts were on to send them back to Pakistan, but these efforts have not succeeded despite the issue having been taken up with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

During the course of hearing, it was also revealed that the internees, who had completed their sentences, could not be repatriated as the requisite travel documents, required to be provided by Pakistan Embassy in Delhi, had not been supplied. Noticing all these facts, Division Bench of this court in the said writ petition observed that if the respondents had taken meaningful steps to send the detenues back home on completion of their respective sentence, then similar action perhaps may have followed from Pakistan side, which may have seen release of Indian Nationals detained in Pakistan even upon completion of their sentence. In this background, it was further observed that Punjab Government has not taken any concrete or decisive steps to apprise the Central Government with regard to the need to send these detenues/internees, who had completed their
sentence, back to Pakistan. Division Bench, also noticed that this court in the case of Fida Hussain and others Vs. Superintendent Jail, Central Jail Patiala and others,(Criminal Writ Petition No.306 of 1995) had given certain directions in an identical situation brought before the court in the said writ petition. After noticing the gist of directions issued in Fida Hussain's case (supra), this court reiterated those directions with some modification in the writ petition No.10069 of 2005 before it. It would be of advantage to reproduce the directions issued in Fida Hussain's case (supra), which were followed in the subsequent writ petition by the Division Bench:-

1)The petitioners will be sent back to Pakistan as soon as possible and when the formalities regarding their return are completed they shall be put on the train (Samjhauta Express) to Pakistan and seen off by the BSF authorities and as per the instructions received by Mr.Lakhanpal, the Pakistani authorities would accept the petitioners in this situation;

2) for their illegal detention, the petitioners will be given Rs.25,000/- each as compensation;

3) for every day the petitioners remain in custody starting from today, they will be paid a sum of Rs.100/- each, per day, towards compensation;

4) The payments aforementioned will be made by the Punjab Govt. the compensation of Rs.25,000/- to be deposited in the name of the petitioners with the jail authorities within one month and the compensation of Rs.100/- per day deposited likewise every fifteen days;

5) The amounts standing in the name of the petitioners will be released to them in cash prior to their return to Pakistan, and they shall be entitled to convert the Indian currency to a foreign one of their choice and carry the same to Pakistan. The latter direction may or may not have the sanction of law, but Article 21 of the Constitution being to my mind the most vital
constitutional safeguard, must be scrupulously respected and any deviation therefrom must call for unusual action at the hands of the court and the relief moulded in accordance with the facts of the case;
6)An enquiry be held to determine and fix responsibility for the lapse in detaining the petitioners without authority of law, and to proceed departmentally against any person(s) found so responsible.

In C.W.P.No.10069 of 2005, this court held as under:-

We largely reiterate the directions in the present proceedings as well, but we find that paragraphs 1 to 4 quoted above, need to be modified, as some of the internees herein have been detained for far too long and for starkly different periods. We thus direct that each prisoner will be paid a
compensation of Rs.10,000/- per year or part thereof after completion of sentence in lump-sum till today and for every day from today till repatriation, a sum of Rs.100/- per day as that is the daily wage in this State. The amount of compensation at the rate of Rs.10,000/- shall, after
computation, be deposited in the name of the prisoners with the Jail Authorities within six weeks from today and the amount of Rs.100/- per day likewise after every 15 days and all payments shall be made by the Punjab Government.

While disposing of this writ petition, Division Bench also noticed the fact of significance that order passed in Fida Hussain's case (supra), was challenged before the Hon'ble Supreme Court by way of Special Leave Petition, which was also dismissed on 25.1.1996. Despite this, when Fida Hussain and others were not deported, they filed a Criminal Misc.Petition before this court in response to which, similar plea relating to inability to repatriate such internees etc. was raised. This petition was disposed of by this court by giving following directions:-

It appears that despite the explicit direction in the above terms, the respondents did not make much effort to deport the petitioners to Pakistan. This inaction on the part of the respondents have led the petitioners to file the present application seeking a further direction that the order dated 4th October, 1995 should be complied with in letter and spirit. Notice of the application was issued on 22nd March, 1996 and the parties are represented today.

A reply has also been filed on behalf of respondent Nos.1 to 3 which is to the effect that in compliance with the order of this court dated 4th October, 1995, the matter was taken up by the Punjab Government with the Government of India for suitable directions to ensure speedy deportation of these detainees, whereas the B.S.F.

Authorities had also held a flag meeting at the Joint Check Post Wagha on 26th February, 1996 with the Pakistan Rangers to take a decision in the same direction, but so far the Pakistani authorities had been unwilling to accept the petitioners back in Pakistan.

Reference has also been made to the various annexures in support of the plea that steps had been taken to comply with this Court's order.

After hearing learned counsel for the parties, I find that the import of this court's order dated 4.10.1995 has been completely mis-understood. As per direction at No.1 quoted above, after the formalities were completed by the Indian side, all that was required to be done by the authorities was to put the petitioners on the Samjhauta Express to Pakistan and to be seen off by the B.S.F.

Authorities, as Mr.Lakhanpal had received instructions from across the border that the Pakistanis would receive the petitioners in that situation.

The intervention of the B.S.F. Authorities with the Pakistan Rangers or any intervention of the Ministries at the central level was not envisaged at any stage. It is also evident that as the Supreme court has itself put a seal of finality on the judgment of this court dated 4th October, 1995, no further argument with regard to the manner and mode of execution of this order remains. This application is accordingly allowed and a direction is issued that the petitioners will be put on the train (Samjhauta Express) to Pakistan on 23rd May, 1996, after all their dues in terms of this Court's order dated 4th October, 1995 have been cleared. A copy of this order be
given dasti to the counsel for the parties.

The fact noticeable is that the internees, as directed in Fida Hussain's case (supra), were put on a train to Pakistan alongwith the compensation as ordered by the court and had actually crossed the border sometime in May, 1996 and were happily accepted by Pakistan authorities.

Accordingly, the Division Bench of this court directed that those internees, who had completed their terms of sentence, be taken to Wagha Border and handed over to Pakistan authorities. While issuing this direction, the Division Bench of this Court expressed hope that Pakistani Courts/Government will consider the case of Indian internees in the like manner as can be seen from the following observations:-

As already mentioned above, the writ petition had originally been filed to secure the release of Indian Prisoners, who were detained in Pakistan though they had completed their sentence. Concededly no direction
can be given by us on this aspect, but we sincerely share the hope that the Pakistan Courts/Government will consider the case of Indian internees, in a like manner.

But for this court, many Fida Hussain may not have been able to taste freedom and be with their near and dear one's despite having undergone the full rigorous of the punishment awarded to them. Many seems to be suffering similar plight. Why should there be a need for a court to intervene every time to set right such aberrations?. Is it insensitively of officials or their lethargy which is responsible for this problem? It results in serious violation of human right of the person(s) concerned. Why can not some system or modality be formulated, so that the requisite formalities are completed by the time an alien complete his sentence so that he can
be released to be free?. Let there be some beginning made now in this regard instead of waiting till some one concerned with human problem like this young student make an other approach like this.

There should not be a need to remind ourselves that protection afforded under Article 21 of the Constitution extends to all `persons' and not merely to citizens. This court in World Human Rights Protection Council's case (supra), had expressed its concern about this problem by saying that to keep a person away from his home and hearth without legal sanction is completely unacceptable.

Insensitive officials continue to act with same lethargy and have not shown any care or concern to this misery suffered by human beings.

Government can show some initiative and provide a procedure, which can be initiated in advance so that the documents, as are needed for deporting a person, are in place by the time he completes his sentence. Keeping such a person as internee in jail on completion of sentence is not legally acceptable norm and may tend to deprive such person of his life and liberty in violation of the procedure established by law. This problem is required to be addressed from human angle more, forgetting, if for a moment, that one is dealing with a foreign National. Let the boundaries not bind us in our approach to this human problem.

It can be seen with satisfaction that the earnest hope expressed by the Division Bench of this court perhaps has already have an effect on Pakistan Government/Courts, which has led to the release of 133 Indian internees or detenues kept in Pakistan Jails, even after completion of their sentences. The release of these Indians is reported in Hindustan Times Newspaper dated 14.8.2007.

Thus, this path breaking beginning made by this court in Fida Hussain's case (supra), and followed in World Human Rights Protection Council's case (supra) have had the desired effect leading to lessening the human miseries by this judicially approach as per the call of judicious conscious of the court. In the present case, there is not much difficulty before this court in following the directions issued in two noted cases of Fida Hussain and World Human Rights Protection Council (supra) .

With some modification considering the short period, for which the present petitioner is allegedly kept even after completion of his term.

Accordingly, the present petition is allowed with the following directions:-

The detenu will be sent back to Pakistan as soon as possible when the formalities regarding his return are complete and he shall be put on train (Samjhauta Express) to Pakistan and seen off by the B.S.F.authorities. The detenu would be paid compensation of Rs.10,000/- per year or part thereof after his completion of sentence in lump-sum till the date of the disposal of the petition and a sum of Rs.100/- per day for every day thereafter till his repatriation as was directed in the above noted cases.

The amount of compensation of Rs.10,000/- shall, after computation, be deposited in the name of the detenu with the jail authorities forthwith and amount of Rs.100/- per day likewise after every 15 days and all payments
shall be made by the Punjab Government.

Let this be a beginning for an end to this human misery.

This petition is disposed of in the above noted terms.

However, the case be put up for further hearing on 26.9.2007 and for
response to working out modalities in this regard as observed above.

( RANJIT SINGH )
JUDGE

AAYUSH GUPTA Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY CWP 5793 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH.

Date of decision: 12.7.2007

Aayush Gupta. -----Petitioner
Vs.
Panjab University. -----Respondent

CORAM:-
HON'BLE MR JUSTICE ADARSH KUMAR GOEL
HON'BLE MR JUSTICE AJAI LAMBA

Present:
Mr. V.K. Jindal, Advocate for the petitioner.
Mr. B.L. Gupta, Advocate for respondent-University.

Adarsh Kumar Goel, J.
This petition seeks a direction for refund of fee of an amount Rs.57,933/- along with interest @ 18 %. Case of the petitioner is that he applied for admission to Five Years’ B.A. L.L.B. (Honours) Integrated Course in the year 2005- 06 with Department of Law of the respondent-University. The petitioner qualified the Common Entrance Test. Since the petitioner could not get admission in General category, he opted for NRI quota and deposited the fee being amount of Rs.87,500/-, Rs.24,063/- and Rs.14,410/-. In CWP. No.5793 of 2007 the second counselling, he was shifted to General category and he vacated the NRI seat, to which, another student was admitted, who paid the same amount. After conversion of NRI quota to General category, the petitioner deposited the prescribed amounts, but he had not been refunded the excess payment made by him being Rs.57,933/-.

On 11.03.2006, rules were notified, which provided refund of fee on conversion of NRI quota seat to General category seat. The petitioner,
accordingly, applied for refund, to which no reply was received. In the reply filed, the stand taken is that claim for refund could be entertained only upto 31st October of the year of admission, as per Note-III at Page xxxv of Hand Book of Information and Rules for Admission-2005. Only objection raised to the refund of fee is that application of the petitioner was beyond the time-limit and he applied for refund 1 year and 5 months after the expiry of the last date, prescribed in the Rules.

Only question for consideration is whether once the petitioner was, on merits, entitled to refund of fee, the same could be denied only on the ground that he did not apply within the time-limit prescribed in the Rules.

In the petition, para 23 of the Rules, incorporated in the appendix to the prospectus, has been quoted, which is to the following effect:-

“If a student originally gets admission in a University Department/Institute/Regional Centre under Foreign/PIO./NRI/NRI sponsored/Industry sponsored category or in a General Category and leaves the same for joining another course in the same department or another department/Institute/Regional Centre in the Punjab University during subsequent counselling of General/Reserved Category, his/her tuition fee shall be adjusted only in the same session as per the existing
University rules. If there is any excess amount still left after the fee adjustment i.e. the balance sum if any shall be refunded after deduction of Rs.500/- (Rs.Five hundred only) as Administrative Charges to the sponsor of the candidate / or to the candidate as the case may be. For this purpose, the candidate must make an application on the prescribed
form for refund of the tuition fee within fifteen days from the date of shifting to another department through the Head of the Department to the Assistant Registrar-II.

In the written statement, reliance has been placed on Note- III at Page xxxv of Hand Book of Information and Rules for Admission- 2005 to the following effect:-

(v) The claim for the refund of fee as mentioned above shall be entertained up to 31st October of the year of admission only.

Rule relied upon on behalf of the University is apparently framed in exercise of power to lay down procedure for admission. Such a rule cannot be intended to enable forfeiture of fee of a student, which is held as trust money to be adjusted in case his NRI seat is converted into General seat, as per procedure laid down. Time limit laid down therein for claiming the refund has to be read as directory and not mandatory. The rule making authority does not have sovereign power of affecting rights of a candidate beyond regulating the procedure for admission. Nature of Subordinate Legislation is well-known and it will be worthwhile to refer to the law on the point laid down by the Hon’ble Supreme Court in State of TN and another v. P.Krishnamurthy and others, (2006) 4 SCC 517:

16. The court considering the validity of a subordinate legislation, will have to consider the nature, object and scheme of the enabling Act, and
also the area over which power has been delegated under the Act and then decide whether the subordinate legislation conforms to the parent
statute. Where a rule is directly inconsistent with a mandatory provision of the statute, then, of course, the task of the court is simple and easy. But where the contention is that the inconsistency or nonconformity of the rule is not with reference to any specific provision of the enabling Act, but with the object and scheme of the parent Act, the Court should proceed with caution before declaring invalidity.

17. In Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) (P) Limited v. Union of India, (1985) 1 SCC 641, this court referred to several grounds on which a subordinate legislation can be challenged as follows:
(SCC p.689, para 75)

75. A piece of subordinate legislation does not carry the same degree of immunity which is enjoyed by a statute passed by a competent legislature. Subordinate legislation may be questioned on any of the grounds on which plenary legislation is questioned. In addition it may also be questioned on the ground that it does not conform to the statute under which it is made. It may further be questioned on the ground that it is contrary to some other statute. That is because subordinate legislation must yield to plenary legislation. It may also be questioned on the ground that it is unreasonable, unreasonable not in the sense of not being reasonable, but in the sense that it is manifestly arbitrary.

18. In Supreme Court Employees' Welfare Assn. v. UOI, (1989) 4 SCC 187, this Court held that the validity of a subordinate legislation is open to
question if it is ultra vires the Constitution or the governing Act or repugnant to the general principles of the laws of the land or is so arbitrary or unreasonable that no fairminded authority could ever have made it. It was further held that the Rules are liable to be declared invalid if they are manifestly unjust or oppressive or outrageous or directed to be
unauthorised and/or violative of the general principles of law of the land or so vague that it cannot be predicted with certainty as to what it prohibited or so unreasonable that they cannot be attributed to the power delegated or otherwise disclose bad faith.

19. In Shri Sitaram sugar Co. Limited v. UOI, (1990) 3 SCC 223, a Constitution Bench of this Court reiterated : (SCC pp.251-52, para 47)
“47. Power delegated by statute is limited by its terms and subordinate to its objects. The delegate must act in good faith, reasonably,
intra vires the power granted, and on relevant consideration of amterial facts. All his decisions, whether characterised as legislative or administrative or quasi-judicial, must be in harmony with the Constitution
and other laws of the land. They must be 'reasonably related to the purposes of the enabling legislation'. See Leila Mourning v. Family Publications Service, 411 US 356. If they are manifestly unjust or oppressive or outrageous or directed to an unauthorised end or do not tend in some degree to the accomplishment of the objects of delegation,
court might well say, 'Parliament never intended to give authority to make such rules; they are unreasonable and ultra vires' : per Lord Russel of Killowen, C.J. In Kruse v. Johnson, (1898) 2 QB 91.

20. In St.John's Teachers Training Institute v. Regional Director, NCTE, (2003) 3 SCC 321, this Court explained the scope and purpose of delegated legislation thus: (SCC p.331, para 10)

10. A regulation is a rule or order prescribed by a superior for the
management of some business and implies a rule for general course of action.

Rules and Regulations are all comprised in delegated legislations. The power to make subordinate legislation is derived from the enabling Act and it is fundamental that the delegate on whom such a power is conferred has to act within the limits of authority conferred by the Act. Rules cannot be made to supplant the provisions of the enabling Act but to supplement it. What is permitted is the delegation of ancillary or
subordinate legislative functions, or, what is fictionally called, a power to fill up details. The legislature may, after laying down the legislative policy confer discretion on an administrative agency as to the execution of the policy and leave it to the agency to work out the details within the framework of policy. The need for delegated legislation is that they are
framed with care and minuteness, when the statutory authority making the rule, after coming into force of the Act, is in a better position to adapt the Act to special circumstances. Delegated legislation permits utilisation of experience and consultation with interests affected by the pacifical operation of statutes.

We may also refer to the observations of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in Central Inland Water Transport Corporation Ltd. v. Brojo Nath Ganguly AIR 1986 SUPREME COURT 1571, wherein scope of Article 14 of the Constitution with reference to rights of persons with unequal bargaining power was considered and it was observed:-

The Constitution was enacted to secure to all the citizens of this country social and economic justice. Article 14 of the Constitution guarantees to all persons equality before the law and the equal protection of the laws.

The principle deducible from the above discussions on this part of the case is in consonance with right and reason, intended to secure social and economic justice and conforms to the mandate of the great equality clause in Art. 14. This principle is that, the courts will not enforce and will, when called upon to do so, strike down an unfair and unreasonable contract, or an unfair and unreasonable clause in a contract, entered into between parties who are not equal in bargaining power.

Defence pleaded by the University to deny refund of fee to the petitioner is not fair and cannot be accepted. The rule to deny right to claim refund sought within reasonable time cannot be strictly applied and refund cannot be denied without showing valid justification, which in the present case has not been shown. It has not been shown that any loss or prejudice has been suffered by the University. Fee from another candidate has been received. Mere expiry of date, by which making of application has been laid down, cannot be treated as a valid ground to deny refund, in the facts of the present case.

In view of above, we are of the view that the petitioner is entitled to refund of the amount of fee paid i.e. Rs.57,933/-. We direct the respondent-University to refund/adjust the said amount within three months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order.

The writ petition is disposed of accordingly.

( ADARSH KUMAR GOEL )
JUDGE

( AJAI LAMBA )
JUDGE

SOPU Protest

Protest: SOPU activists staged a protest outside the law department on Friday against a student not being allowed to submit his papers through his guardian during counselling. SOPU members gave a written complaint against the chairman, Shashi K. Sharma, to the vice-chancellor’s office, alleging that Brinder Singh had applied for admission to the first semester through his guardians but the application was rejected. He had taken the plea that he was medically unfit to attend the counselling. SOPU rival group, PUSU, alleged that Brinder Singh was an offender under Section 307 of the IPC and was absconding and not medically unfit as his certificate stated.

Meeting: The syndicate meeting to be held on Saturday is likely to discuss several issues, including teaching appointments to the departments of Hindi and Punjabi, resignations of two teachers, and action against Guru Gobind Singh College for Women, Sector 26, for not seeking affiliation for a course.

Condolence: The faculty of the Hindi department held a condolence meeting in connection with the death of Rakesh Vats, an author of Ambala known for his contribution to Hindi literature.

MITHILA CHAKU AND ORS Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORS CIVIL WRIT PETITION 1802 OF 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH.

DATE OF DECISION: April 30, 2007

Parties Name Mithila Chaku and others ..PETITIONERS
VERSUS
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others ...RESPONDENTS

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE JASBIR SINGH
HON'BLE MRS. JUSTICE NIRMAL YADAV

PRESENT:
Mr. A.S.Virk, Advocate, for the petitioners.

JASBIR SINGH, J. (oral)
Order.
Counsel for the petitioners states that in view of the petitioners' having taken reappear test, they wish to withdraw this writ petition.

Ordered accordingly.

( Jasbir Singh )
Judge

( Nirmal Yadav)
Judge

NITIN MITTAL Versus PUNJAB UNIVERSITY AND ANR CWP 5823 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision: 23.4.2007

Nitin Mittal Petitioner
versus
Panjab University and another Respondents

CORAM:-
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE JASBIR SINGH
HON'BLE MRS. JUSTICE NIRMAL YADAV

Present:
Shri V.K.Sharma, Advocate for the petitioner

Jasbir Singh, J. (Oral)
Vide order Annexure P/2, for use of unfair means during
examination, the petitioner was debarred from appearing in any University examination, for a period of one year.

It is apparent from the records that on 2.12.2006, the petitioner was undergoing examination in the subject of Law. He was found using unfair means. Following report was made by the Supervisor of the examination on that date:-

I saw that Roll no.249 on date 2.12.2006 at about 9.45
a.m. I saw that the candidate was reading something from the handwritten slip. I took possession of the slip and handover the matter to the Centre Supdt. The slip duly signed by me and the Centre Supdt. Is enclosed herewith.

The petitioner made the following statement at the time of detection of above-said material:-

I student of Ist Sem.declares that I did not use any such
irrelevant material. By mistake it remained in my pocket.

So, please grant me pardon. My intention was not to use it during examination. I bring that only for reading before starting of examination.

Possession of incriminating material is virtually admitted.

Thereafter, an attempt has been made by the petitioner to say that the incriminating material was recovered from him in the toilet. This was not his case in the first instance, which appears to be improved and furthermore,
the petitioner has failed to show that as to why the Centre Supervisor has made a wrong statement. No case is made out for interference.

Dismissed.

( Jasbir Singh )
Judge
(Nirmal Yadav)
Judge

ABHIJEET P S CHAUDHARY Versus PUNJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORS CWP 18273 of 2006

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of decision: 20.03.2007

Abhijeet P.S.Chaudhary. .... Petitioner(s)
Versus
Panjab University, Chandigarh and others. .... Respondents

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE JASBIR SINGH
HON'BLE MRS.JUSTICE NIRMAL YADAV

Present:-
Mr.Sumeet Mahajan, Sr. Advocate, with
Mr. Amandeep Singh, Advocate, for the petitioners.
Mr.Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for the respondents.

Jasbir Singh, J. (Oral)
Petitioner was not allowed to appear in examination for the 3rd
semester of B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) (5 Years Integrated Course). He filed the present writ petition and on 20.11.2006, following order was passed by this Court:-

Contends that although the petitioner had applied for re-evaluation of his papers in the subject of History II and Public International Law of 2nd semester of B.A, LL.B (Hons.) ( 5 years Integrated Course) on September 4, 2006, the reevaluation result has not been declared so far.

Notice of motion to the respondents. On the asking of Court, Shri Anupam Gupta, Advocate accepts notice on behalf of the respondents and prays for time to seek instructions.

Copies of the writ petition have been supplied to the learned counsel for the respondents.

It is not in dispute that the petitioner had also applied for reevaluation of his answer-sheets in two subjects of the 2nd semester. As per the admitted position, in view of the result of re-evaluation, he was declared pass in those two subjects, as such he became eligible to get admission in 3rd semester.

In view of the admitted position, we allow this writ petition and
confirm the admission of petitioner in 3rd semester of B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) (5 Years Integrated Course). The respondent-University is also directed to declare result of the petitioner's 3rd semester examination.

( Jasbir Singh )
JUDGE

( Nirmal Yadav )
JUDGE

PRITPALJIT SINGH Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORSCWP No 19136 of 2006

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB and HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of decision: 20.3.2007

Pritpaljit Singh. .... Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and others. .... Respondents

CWP No. 19778 of 2006

Nirvair Singh. ... Petitioner
Versus
Panjab University and others. ... Respondents.

CORAM:
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE JASBIR SINGH
HON'BLE MRS.JUSTICE NIRMAL YADAV

Present:-
Mr.D.K.Nagar, Advocate, for the petitioner in
CWP No. 19136 of 2006.
Mr. R.S.Dhanda, Advocate, for the petitioner in
CWP No. 19778 of 2006.
Mr. Anupam Gupta, Advocate, for the respondents.

Jasbir Singh, J. (Oral)
Vide this judgment, the above mentioned two petitions are being disposed of together as the facts and questions of law involved, in these cases, are the same. However, the facts are being taken from CWP No. 19136 of 2006, to dictate this order.

Petitioner is a student of B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) (5 Years Integrated Course). He appeared in 2nd semester examination and was
declared fail in two subjects. He was not allowed to join the 3rd semester despite the fact that he had already applied for re-evaluation of the answer sheets in the subjects in which he was declared fail. At that stage, he filed the present writ petition. On 4.12.2006, following order was passed by this Court:-

Contends that the result of the re-evaluation of the petitioner was declared on November 24, 2006 and was communicated to him on November 29, 2006. However, admission to the petitioner in 3rd semester of B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) (5 Years Intergrated Course) is denied only on the ground that the last date for admission was October 15, 2006.

According to the learned counsel, the petitioner was entitled to
apply for seeking admission to the higher class after the declaration of the re-evaluation result.

Notice of motion to the respondents for December 14, 2006.

On the asking of Court, Shri Ashish Rawal, Advocate, accepts notice on behalf of Shri Anupam Gupta, Advocate for the respondents and prays for time to seek instructions.

Copies of the writ petition shall be supplied to the learned counsel for the respondents, during the course of the day.

In the meantime, the petitioner shall be granted provisional admission and shall be permitted to participate in 3rd semester of B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) (5 Years Integrated Course) in the remaining papers of the examination which has already commenced.

However, the aforesaid permission is wholly provisional and shall not vest any equitable right to him and shall be subject to the final decision of the writ petition.

The University is also directed to issue the roll number and admit card to the petitioner forthwith and till such time, a copy of this order shall be treated as an admit card.

A copy of the order be given dasti to the learned counsel for the parties under the signatures of Special Secretary attached with this Court.

Thereafter the petitioner joined the 3rd semester and also appeared for examination in that course. In the meantime, on re-evaluation, he was declared pass in one subject and as such he became eligible to appear in 3rd semester.

In view of the admitted position, we allow this writ petition, confirm the admission of the petitioner in 3rd semester of B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) (5 Years Integrated Course). The respondent-University is also directed to declare result of the petitioner's 3rd semester examination.

( Jasbir Singh )
JUDGE

( Nirmal Yadav )
JUDGE

ANUPAM JAMWAL Versus PUNJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORS CWP 3490 of 2007

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

Date of Decision: 8.3.2007

Anupam Jamwal Petitioner
versus
Panjab University and others Respondents

CORAM:-
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE JASBIR SINGH
HON'BLE MRS. JUSTICE NIRMAL YADAV

Present:
Shri Rajinder Goyal, Advocate for the petitioner

Jasbir Singh, J. (Oral)
Dispute herein pertains to the admission in Master of Pharmacy
course. Admittedly, the petitioner was admitted in above said course in the subject of Pharmacognosy. It is contention of counsel for the petitioner that one seat has wrongly been declined to the candidates, who were claiming the benefit of reservation. Classes have started in the month of July, 2006
and is near completion. Furthermore, if prayer made by the petitioner is accepted, admission of some candidate has to be cancelled in the subject of Pharmaceutical Chemistry. Effected student has also not been impleaded as party in this writ petition. No case is made out for interference.

Dismissed.

( Jasbir Singh )
Judge

( Nirmal Yadav )
Judge

JR SINGLA Versus STATE OF PB and ORS LPA 109 of 2005

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT
CHANDIGARH.

J.R. Singla ...Appellant through
Mr.D.S.Patwalia, Advocate
Vs.
State of Punjab and others ....Respondents through
Mr. Sanjiv Sharma, Addl.A.G. Punjab.

CORAM :
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE VIJENDER JAIN, CHIEF JUSTICE.
HON'BLE MR.JUSTICE RAJIVE BHALLA

1. Whether Reporters of Local Newspapers may be allowed to see the judgement ?

2. To be referred to the Reporters or not ?

3. Whether the judgement should be reported in the Digest ?

RAJIVE BHALLA, J
By way of this order, we propose to dispose of LPA Nos.109 and 128 of 2005. The facts have been extracted from L.P.A. No.109 of 2005.

Challenge in these appeals, is to the order of the learned Single
Judge declining relief of alteration of date of birth. The sole question that arises for consideration in these appeals is, whether the appellants were entitled to the issuance of a writ, directing the respondents, to alter their date of birth in their service books, in accordance with the notification dated 21.6.1994.

The appellant joined service in the department of Excise and
Taxation as a Clerk in 1973. He was thereafter directly recruited as Assistant in 1980 and thereafter promoted as Superintendent in 1988. In the year 1990, he was promoted to the post of Excise and Taxation Officer.

While joining service in 1973 and 1980, the appellant, recorded his date of birth as 20.8.1947. An entry to that effect was made in the service book.

The State of Punjab, issued a notification dated 21.6.1994,
incorporating an amendment in the Punjab Civil Services Rules, Volume-I, Part-I,thereby substituting Note 3(A) below Rule 2.5. As per the unamended note, the date of birth was required to be recorded in the service record. It was also stipulated that once a date of birth was recorded, it could not be altered except in case of a clerical error and that too with the prior approval of the Government. Note 3 stipulates that the date of birth, disclosed by an employee, would be final and no change would be permitted.

The amendment, however, granted a period of two years on 21.6.1994 to an employee, to apply for change of date of birth, on the basis of conclusive documentary evidence, such as matriculation certificate or Municipal birth certificate etc. The Government, thereafter, issued instructions dated 18.1.1995, laying down the procedure for change in date of birth. An enquiry was envisaged, by the Commissioner of Enquiries, before arriving at a decision with respect to the change of date of birth. It
was also stipulated that the date of birth could only be changed after obtaining approval from the Finance Department.

The petitioner, apparently filed an application dated 22.5.1995 to the Excise and Taxation Commissioner, Punjab, Patiala, for
effecting a change in his date of birth. The appellant alleges that he was advised to get his date of birth altered in the matriculation certificate first.

The appellant, thereafter, wrote to the Registrar, Panjab
University,Chandigarh, for effecting a change in his date of birth.

Vide letter dated 26.2.1998, the University communicated change of date of birth from 20.8.1947 to 20.8.1948 and a duplicate certificate was issued. The appellant, applied for change of date of birth on 4.3.1998. Eventually, after obtaining authentication of certificate and following the procedure prescribed, the appellant’s application was rejected. Aggrieved thereafter, the appellant preferred a writ petition, which was dismissed by the learned Single Judge, vide order dated 31.5.2005.

The sole contention urged by counsel for the appellant is that the
learned Single Judge erred in ignoring the instructions, issued by the State of Punjab, permitting its employees, to seek alteration of date of birth within two years from 21.6.1994. It is contended that the instructions issued by the Government, were binding upon the respondents and, therefore, should have been honoured by altering the appellant’s date of birth. It is further argued that the judgements, referred to by the learned Single Judge, primarily pertain to cases, where the rules did not confer a right, to seek alteration of the date of birth and, therefore, the Hon’ble Supreme Court, rightly held that the date of birth could not be altered. However, as the State of Punjab issued instructions, permitting change of date of birth, the present appeal should be accepted, the order of the learned Single Judge should be set aside and the respondents be directed, to effect an alteration in the date of birth of the appellant.

It will be necessary to notice and as conceded by counsel for
the appellant, the appellant has since retired from Government service.

Counsel for the respondents, on the other hand, states that the
judgement of the learned Single Judge is legal and valid and does not suffer from any error of law or jurisdiction. It is argued that the learned Single Judge, rightly held that the appellant was not entitled, to seek alteration of his date of birth. Even otherwise, the complete application filed by the appellant was after a period of two years prescribed by the instructions and,
therefore, even on facts, the appellant is not entitled to any relief.

We have heard learned counsel for the parties and perused the paper book.

An employee enters service, based upon prescribed qualifications, which include the prescribed date of birth. After entering service,seniority in certain situations, is determined by the age disclosed by an employee.

The date he joins service, his career stands charted out in accordance with the rules and regulations that govern his service. His right to promotion and all other attendant circumstances, subject to imponderables stand crystalised. To permit change of date of birth, at a belated stage in service, would alter this situation. His seniority and consequently his promotion etc., as also of his colleagues would also be affected.

As held by Hon’ble the Supreme Court in Secretary and Commissioner, Home Department and others V. R. Kirubakaran, 1994 Supp.(1) SCC 155, correction of a date of
birth of a public servant sets into motion a chain reaction causing havoc amongst colleagues, those who are juniors and seniors.

Correction in a date of birth, would affect other public servants, as regards seniority and promotion, against which affected employees would have no right of redress. This reasoning led to a series of judgements by Hon’ble the Supreme Court, commenting adversely upon the practice of alteration of date of birth, during service. Some of the judgements may be referred to
namely; Union of India V. Harnam Singh 1993(2) Supreme Court Cases 162 and Cement Corporation of India Ltd. V. Raghbir Singh and another 2002(9) Supreme Court Cases 398. The learned Single Judge, upon a consideration of the law, as enunciated in the aforementioned judgements, in our considered opinion, rightly dismissed the writ petition.

Contention of counsel for the appellant that in the year 1994, the State of Punjab introduced Note 3-A, appended to Rule 2.5 of the Punjab Civil Services Rules Vol.1 Part I, granting a period of two years to every government employee, to seek rectification of his date of birth, conferred a right upon the appellant, to seek alteration in his date of birth, cannot be accepted, in view of the legal position, as noticed by the learned Single Judge and as referred to herein above as also by the learned Single Judge while commenting adversely upon the note and the amendment to the rules, rightly held that the rules did not take into consideration the law as enunciated by the Hon’ble Supreme Court . We find no ground to interfere with the judgement, whether on law or facts.

It would also be necessary to notice here that the learned Single Judge dealt with the matter on merits and recorded a finding that the appellant’s application, filed in 1995 was incomplete. The complete application was filed in the year 1998 i.e. after the period prescribed in the rules had expired. Thus, even if the rules are said to confer a statutory right, to seek alteration of date of birth, the period prescribed in the rules having expired, the appellant had no subsisting right, to seek alteration of his date of birth.

The respondents rightly dismissed the appellant's application and the learned Single Judge rightly dismissed the writ petition.

In view of what has been noticed above, as the present appeal lacks merit, we dismiss the same with no other as to costs.

( RAJIVE BHALLA )
JUDGE

( VIJENDER JAIN )
CHIEF JUSTICE

Malkiat Singh and Panjab University and others Civil Writ Petition 7740 of 2003

PUNEET GARG Versus VICE CHANCELLOR AND ANR CWP 20153 of 2006

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: December 19, 2006

Puneet Garg ….Petitioner
VERSUS
Vice Chancellor, Panjab University and another Respondents

CORAM:-
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE VINEY MITTAL
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE H.S. BHALLA

PRESENT:
Shri ADS Jattana, Advocate for the petitioner.

Viney Mittal,J.(Oral).
Concededly, the petitioner has a shortage of 67 lecturers.

He has approached this Court for issuance of directions to the
University authorities for condoning the aforesaid lecturers. In the
present petition, no details have been given with regard to the powers possessed by the University authorities for condonation of such a shortage.

After hearing the learned counsel for the petitioner and keeping in view the vague averments made in the present petition, we do not find any merit in the present petition.

Dismissed.

(Viney Mittal)
Judge

(M.M.S. Bedi)
Judge

RADHIKA SEHGAL AND ORS Versus PANJAB UNIVERSITY AND ORS CWP 19667 of 2006

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA AT CHANDIGARH

DATE OF DECISION: December 12, 2006

Radhika Sehgal and others ….Petitioners
VERSUS
Panjab University and another Respondents

CORAM:-
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE VINEY MITTAL
HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE H.S. BHALLA

PRESENT: