Chandigarh, Dec 20: The prolonged absence of regular principals in dozens of Panjab University-affiliated colleges has begun to affect academic governance, faculty recruitment and decision-making, educationists and former university officials said, after PU issued notices to 42 colleges over violations.
Under PU rules, officiating principals are allowed to hold charge for only six months. However, many colleges have continued with temporary leadership far beyond the stipulated period, prompting the university to issue fresh show-cause notices this week.
Former PU senator Jagwant Singh said the lack of permanent leadership undermines institutional stability. “It is a basic requirement under UGC norms that academic institutions must have regular heads. In the absence of a duly appointed principal, institutions invariably suffer in their functioning,” he said.
Singh added that the University Grants Commission mandates regular leadership to ensure coordination, accountability and academic planning.
The situation is evident at DAV College, Sector 10, where the post of principal has been vacant since 2022. The college has had three officiating principals in succession — Rita Jain, followed by Jyotirmaya Khatri, and currently Mona Narang — all appointed on the basis of seniority.
MCM DAV College for Women, Sector 36, has also been without a regular principal for about a year. An officiating principal first took charge in November 2024, followed by Neena Sharma, who assumed office in March 2025.
Former principals said officiating heads often avoid major policy decisions, leading to delays in recruitment and administrative approvals. “Temporary arrangements create hesitation. Important decisions are postponed, which eventually affects students and faculty,” a retired principal said.
Officiating principals at the two Chandigarh colleges said they had not received formal communication regarding the notices.
PU Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig reiterated that the university would act strictly under the rules. “The regulations are clear, and the university will proceed accordingly,” she said.
Officials from the PU College Development Council remained unavailable for comment.
