Chitkara University makes mockery of government orders in the name of education
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ March 22,2026
Questions have been raised over the functioning of Chitkara University , Banur, Punjab after it allegedly continued academic and administrative activities on several government-declared holidays.
Both the Union and state governments notify national, gazetted, and restricted holidays every year, which are typically observed by educational institutions, government bodies, and private organizations. However, the Banur-based university reportedly did not declare holidays on Eid (March 21, 2026), the martyrdom day of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru (March 23, 2026), as well as Ram Navami (March 26, 2026), and instead asked students and staff to attend classes and office.The university also operates another campus in Himachal Pradesh.
The issue has triggered criticism from sections of the public, with some questioning whether private institutions can deviate from government holiday norms, making mockery of the system.
Last year the university celebrated Christmas when the nation is paying tribute to ‘Hind Di Chadar’Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji on his 350th Martyrdom Day . That day was also a holiday. Read :https://royalpatiala.in/chitkara-university-celebrates-christmas-as-the-nation-pays-tribute-to-guru-tegh-bahadur-ji-on-his-350th-martyrdom-day/
When contacted, the university administration defended its decision. Registrar Col. Rakesh Sharma said the institution follows academic requirements set by the University Grants Commission.
“We have around 10,000 students, over 60 schools, and nearly 80 courses. We are required to complete a prescribed number of academic days, and we ensure that these requirements are met,” he said.
He added that the university observes full holidays on key national days such as January 26, August 15, and October 2, while allowing flexibility to students and staffs to avail leave on other occasions.
“We respect all communities and occasions. Those who wish to celebrate can take leave,” he said.
However, some local residents expressed concern over the approach. AK Singh, a resident, said holidays serve a broader purpose beyond a break from routine.
“These days are meant to remind students about our history, culture, and the sacrifices of our martyrs. If institutions do not observe them, it may weaken awareness among the younger generation,” he said.
Efforts to seek a response from Patiala Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia were unsuccessful, as a call went unanswered.
The development has sparked a wider debate on the balance between academic requirements and adherence to officially annouced public holidays.
