PU observes two-minute silence on Martyrs’ Day

Chandigarh, January 30, 2026: Panjab University observed a two-minute silence today across the campus on Martyrs’ Day to commemorate the martyrdom of Mahatma Gandhi and to pay homage to freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the nation. Various departments and centres participated in the observance.
Led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig, various officers and staff assembled at the Vice Chancellor’s office complex to mark the occasion in silence. Those present included Prof. Krishan Kumar, Secretary to the Vice Chancellor, Sh. Vikram Singh, Chief of University Security, along with members of the university security staff and other officials.
As part of the campus-wide programme, the Department of Library and Information Science also observed Martyrs’ Day. Faculty members, research scholars, students and non-teaching staff participated in a two-minute silence in memory of the martyrs. Dr. Khushpreet Singh Brar, Chairperson of the Department, recalled the sacrifices made during India’s freedom struggle and said the rights and freedoms enjoyed today were earned through the courage and sacrifice of the martyrs.
Similarly, the Department of Lifelong Learning and Extension observed Martyrs’ Day in compliance with directions issued by the Chandigarh Administration, Home Department (Protocol Branch), through the Dean of University Instruction. 
A two-minute silence was observed from 11:00 a.m. to 11:02 a.m., led by Dr. Parmjit Singh Kang, with participation from faculty members, students, research scholars and staff. He briefly recalled the sacrifices of freedom fighters and said their collective struggle eventually led to Independence and the establishment of the Republic, reflecting the nation’s legacy of courage and patriotism.
PU National Service Scheme (NSS), commemorated the martyrdom of Mahatma Gandhi by organising a cleanliness drive and a pledge-taking ceremony on the campus. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Parveen Goyal, Programme Coordinator, NSS, and Dr. Sonia Sharma, NSS Programme Officer, with active participation of NSS volunteers.