Panjab University Cracks Down on Loud Music, Bans DJs at Campus Events
In a firm move to restore order and reduce noise disruptions on campus, Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, has announced a ban on the use of DJ systems during departmental events. The decision comes in the wake of increasing complaints about loud music, unruly behavior, and disturbances caused by such gatherings, particularly during the recent festival season.
According to university officials, the new directive applies to all departments under the varsity. Faculty members and department heads have been made directly responsible for ensuring that events maintain discipline and adhere to the guidelines. This includes enforcing the rule that all events must wrap up by 6 PM.
The order, issued by the Dean of University Instruction, allows departments to continue hosting traditional welcome and farewell parties. However, it clearly states that these events must be held without the use of DJ systems or high-volume music equipment.
Further strengthening its stance, the university reiterated its existing “no-outsider” policy. Only enrolled students and university faculty will be allowed to attend on-campus events, aiming to curb the inflow of external guests who, in the past, have reportedly contributed to disorderly conduct.
PU’s campus is no stranger to vibrant student life, often punctuated by high-energy celebrations. Major departments across the university typically host orientation events to greet new batches and bid farewell to outgoing students. These functions often include fashion walks, music performances, and late-night dance sessions with DJ music.
However, the recent spate of celebrations—particularly during March, which included multiple fests organized by the Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC) and the Holi celebration—sparked several complaints. Students, faculty members, and library-goers voiced concerns about increased noise levels and chaotic behavior.
One faculty member from the botany department, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that classes were frequently disrupted due to loud music blaring across the campus. “We could hardly hear ourselves think, let alone conduct a lecture,” the faculty member said.
There is an existing rule that caps permissible noise levels on campus at 50 decibels. However, this limit has reportedly been ignored repeatedly, especially during student-organized functions.
Avtar Singh, a representative of the Students’ Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU), pointed out that the loud music was becoming a serious nuisance, particularly for students studying at the AC Joshi Library. “Studying in peace is becoming a luxury. This isn’t how a university should function,” he said.
PUCSC president Anurag Dalal expressed a mixed reaction to the move. While acknowledging that the ban may dampen student enthusiasm, he also emphasized that the decision was necessary given recent events. “These rules aren’t meant to ruin anyone’s fun. Students can still enjoy music and celebrations outside campus premises. But on campus, we need a peaceful environment,” he stated.
The faculty community, however, appears divided over the new policy. Some support the restrictions, citing the need to maintain academic focus and decorum. Others feel the decision is overly strict and may negatively affect campus culture.
Mritunjay Kumar, General Secretary of the Panjab University Teachers’ Association (PUTA), expressed concerns about the broader implications. “While it’s important to address issues of discipline, this blanket ban on DJs may have a chilling effect on campus vibrancy and student morale,” he remarked.
Despite differing opinions, the administration seems determined to implement the new rules. University authorities have emphasized that any violations will be dealt with seriously. Faculty and department heads will be held accountable for ensuring compliance, and strict monitoring of event timings and participation is expected.
Students who want to organize any kind of gathering must now ensure they secure proper permissions and follow all stipulated guidelines. Organizers are also required to notify authorities well in advance and ensure that sound systems used are within the legal decibel range.
The university administration has hinted at exploring alternative modes of student entertainment that are more inclusive and less disruptive. Discussions are ongoing about hosting cultural evenings, open mic sessions, and acoustic music nights, which could offer students a platform for self-expression without breaching noise limits.
Meanwhile, some student groups are planning to appeal for a relaxation of the rules, especially during annual fests and major university celebrations. A few have proposed that designated soundproof zones could be created for such events, though the feasibility of such an idea remains uncertain.
In the coming weeks, the effectiveness of these regulations will be closely watched. Whether the new rules manage to strike a balance between discipline and celebration or tip too far into restriction remains to be seen.
As the academic session continues, all eyes are on how this shift in policy will impact student life at Panjab University—a campus that has long prided itself on its lively, culturally rich atmosphere.
