Private university criticised for holding Christmas event on Guru Tegh Bahadurs martyrdom day

patiala: a private university here on tuesday came under criticism from sikh bodies and political leaders for remaining open and allegedly holding a christmas event on guru tegh bahadur's 350th martyrdom day, a gazetted holiday in punjab.surjit singh gharhi, member of the sgpc's ad-hoc committee, condemned the chitkara university management for keeping the campus open, saying it showed disregard for sikh sentiments.he objected to a christmas-themed activity reportedly conducted in the hospitality department.shiromani akali dal (punjabi ekta party) spokesperson jagjit singh kohli also criticised the university, demanding its immediate closure. he alleged that holding such festivities on a day of remembrance “hurts sikh religious sentiments”.kohli questioned the presence of pro chancellor dr madhu chitkara at a christmas fruit-mixing event as chief guest.the state government had declared november 25 a holiday under the negotiable instruments act for all educational institutions and government offices. despite this, chitkara university continued normal operations.registrar col. rakesh sharma said he was unaware of any christmas event and would verify the matter. he added the university respects all religions and no student or faculty member was prevented from attending programmes related to guru tegh bahadur's martyrdom.confirming the university remained open, he said, “we are open because our students have some commitments. some teachers have come from outside.”