Bajwa welcomes Guru Tegh Bahadur World Class University Bill

Chandigarh: Leader of opposition in Punjab assembly Partap Singh Bajwa on Tuesday welcomed the passage of the Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur World Class University, Punjab Bill, 2026, calling it a historic opportunity to build an institution of national importance in Anandpur Sahib.Bajwa said a university in the name of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib could not be treated as a routine legislative exercise. "It carries immense moral, historical and civilisational weight. This must rise above symbolism and become a truly world-class institution in letter and spirit," he said. Extending full support to the objective of honouring the Guru's supreme sacrifice, Bajwa cautioned that the real challenge begins now in implementation. "The credibility of this project will depend entirely on transparency, clarity and intent," said the senior leader. Raising concerns, Bajwa called for the govt to immediately place all details regarding land and finances in the public domain. He said the exact location of the permanent campus, total land area, legal status and financial commitments must be clearly disclosed."An institution of this stature cannot be built on vague announcements or incomplete planning," he said. On governance, Bajwa emphasised that Punjab's long-standing democratic traditions in higher education must be upheld. He called for elected representation of teachers and graduates in the university's senate and governing bodies."Democratic participation is not a formality, it is the foundation of credible and accountable institutions," said the Congress leader.Bajwa further stressed that the university must not be designed within a narrow or bureaucratic framework. Given the universal message of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, the institution must adopt a clear national vision, with strong academic collaborations and outreach across India.He also warned against reducing the university to a purely technical or high-tech campus. "This institution must have intellectual depth. It must include a full-fledged academic department dedicated to the life, philosophy and teachings of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji — not a token chair, but a serious centre of scholarship," said the Qadian legislator.Bajwa expressed hope that the govt would proceed with transparency, consultation and seriousness in the coming stages. MSID:: 129633395 413 |