On July 14, 2025, the Hon’ble Supreme Court delivered a verdict that annulled the recruitment process of 1,158 Assistant Professors and Librarians in Punjab’s government colleges. This judgment has not only deeply affected the candidates and their families but has also raised serious concerns about the future of higher education in the state. The loss of these teaching and librarian positions directly threatens the academic prospects of thousands of students across Punjab.
In light of this setback, the 1158 Assistant Professor and Librarian Front Punjab has placed forward the following demands to safeguard both the livelihoods of the recruited candidates and the interests of Punjab’s education system:
Job Security – The services of all Assistant Professors and Librarians appointed through this recruitment process must be protected, ensuring that no candidate loses employment due to the cancellation.
Legal Measures – The government should urgently file a review petition and, if required, a curative petition in the Supreme Court. These should be pursued with full commitment, and preference must be given to an open courtroom hearing rather than a chamber hearing.
Dialogue with Leadership – An immediate meeting should be convened between the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Punjab and representatives of the 1158 Assistant Professor and Librarian Front to discuss the way forward.
Public Assurance – The Hon’ble Chief Minister should make a formal public statement guaranteeing that the jobs of the Assistant Professors and Librarians selected under this recruitment will be safeguarded without compromise.