Tensions Rise Between Punjab Governor and Government Over VC Appointments

Tensions have escalated between Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and the provincial government regarding the appointment of vice-chancellors (VCs) at universities across Punjab. The conflict arose after Governor Haider rejected all 13 summaries forwarded for VC appointments, providing a detailed response justifying each rejection. This development follows the provincial government’s recent appointment of VCs at seven universities, claiming the mandatory 14-day review period had expired.

Governor House sources emphasized that the governor, who also serves as the chancellor of the universities, holds the final authority to appoint vice-chancellors. They highlighted that while the government can propose three candidates per position, it is ultimately the governor’s decision, adding that the 14-day review period for six of the universities’ summaries had not yet lapsed.

Conversely, the Chief Minister’s office dismissed the governor’s objections, arguing that his role is largely ceremonial. They insisted the appointments were legally sound, creating a rift between the executive and the chancellor’s office.

This dispute comes just a day after the provincial government appointed VCs for major institutions, including Punjab University, University of Gujrat, and Bahauddin Zakariya University. As both sides stand firm on their positions, the standoff highlights the ongoing struggle over the control of higher education governance in Punjab.