Panjab University cancels Sartaaj night, puts all events on hold

CHANDIGARH: After gunshots were fired near the Student Centre, Panjab University cancelled Wednesday's Satinder Sartaaj star night and put all Jhankaar fest events on hold. Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini was scheduled to attend as the chief guest.

Confirming the decision, PU vice-chancellor Prof Renu Vig said, "Tomorrow's star night has been cancelled." She added, "I have instructed the DSW office to postpone all events until a better plan of such events for better campus security isn't evolved."

The decision follows the firing incident reported from the parking area adjacent to the Botany Department, a stretch that leads directly to the Student Centre and sees heavy student movement, especially during events. The incident triggered panic on campus amid large gatherings for the fest.

Despite the incident, Tuesday's Haryana star night went ahead as scheduled, with three artists performing at the UBS grounds near Students Centre. However, tension was visible on campus later in the evening. Members of some student organisations briefly protested at the Student Centre, raising concerns over safety.

Around 8:40 pm, stalls and shops in and around the Student Centre were asked to shut, even as police presence was increased in the area.

The Jhankaar fest has been drawing heavy crowds, with star nights leading to peak footfall. With multiple open entry points and limited checks, regulating access during such events remains a challenge.