Last-minute push as canvassing for PU polls concludes

Curtains fell on canvassing for the Panjab University Campus Students’ Council (PUCSC) elections amid a pronounced enthusiasm this evening. As rain dampened the already low spirit during the last leg of campaigning, various political groups got their act together just in time to put up a last show of strength at the campus in the evening.

Bumper-to-bumper traffic, supporters raising slogans drenched in rain, security agencies running from pillar-to-post to control the situation— meant the varsity finally wore elections’ colours.

In the evening, almost all parties held their respective rallies to give a last push to their campaign. “The groups were allocated specific timings for carrying their respective rallies,” said Amit Chauhan, Dean Student Welfare (DSW).

Meanwhile, during the rallies, traffic was disrupted hugely near the Administration Block, Science Block and Hostels’ Road, putting inconvenience for many users. “The authorities should have given ample time to conduct the rallies. Arrangements should have been made for a better road show,” said Preet Hundal, a student and supporter of ASAP.

While the girls’ hostels remained full of activity, the boys’ hostels witnessed a low turnout of candidates. “Majority of the contesting candidates are male, and they can approach the boys’ hostels anytime. However, visiting the girls’ hostels, they need permission and so the rallies become important,” added Maninder Sapru, another student. “There was a huge traffic chaos inside the campus, and the authorities should have managed it well. The youngsters won’t understand the problems faced by the residents, but the authorities should have planned in a better way,” said Anand, a campus resident.

16,124 voters, women outnumber men

Till the filing of this report, as many as 16,124 students will be eligible to pick the new PUCSC panel on September 3, confirmed the university authorities— a jump of approximately 227 in comparison to last year.

Though, the students securing admissions till the September 2 deadline (after submitting their fee) will also be eligible for voting. Interestingly, of the total registrations for which segregated data is available, 6,959 are women, outnumbering men. Data for around 3,000 students is till being segregated.

“With more than half of the strength, the female voters will surely have a decisive authority. It is unsurprising then that the rallies were often seen headed to the girls’ hostel over boys’,” said Amanjot Kaur, a campus student.

Notably, for the first time, the varsity had asked the departments to share gender-wise data so as to have complete information about voters. The data is also expected to help the authorities in decision-making and discuss reserving seats for women in the future.

“There were various claims of universities having nearly 70 per cent of female students. The fresh data will help us assess the exact figures. There are certain departments, which are yet to release the gender-wise data, but major departments have submitted it already,” said an official, asking for anonymity.

Women’s representation in the PUCSC has increased over the time, and this year three of them are contesting for the president’s post, followed by one for vice-president and one for secretary.

Officials to review compliance with Lyngdoh guidelines

Meanwhile, varsity authorities have decided to review the Lyngdoh Committee guidelines in preparation for the next PUCSC elections, considering the ambiguity over various issues including, usage of social media, defacement and on the major issue of dual admissions.

“The university is planning to review the guidelines on the direction of the Vice Chancellor. We have received the highest number of complaints this year, and things needed to be cleared to avoid any future trouble. For instance, taking action on any candidate who participates in a party conducted outside the campus during the Code of Conduct or to have a better understanding of students taking dual admissions. So, soon after this year’s PUCSC elections, we are reviewing the Lyngdoh guidelines,” added an official privy to the matter.