PU gives nod to students’ council constitution

Panjab University has approved the first-ever constitution of the Panjab University Campus Students’ Council (PUCSC), which was functioning in absence of any written document.

“The PUCSC constitution has been finalised in consultation with members of the students’ council of previous three years and other stakeholders,” said Prof Renu Vig, Vice-Chancellor of the university. “The final printing of the draft has started, and the constitution will be put on record at every office, including that of the PUCSC and the VC, after printing. An oath will be also taken for finally implementing the constitution, as one of the PUCSC office-bearers will join the office soon. The constitution stands implemented, as on when signed by the competent authority,” said DSW Amit Chauhan. The constitution outlines mainly financial functions of the PUCSC, also requiring members to participate in planning, auditing and disbursing of funds.

In August, the VC had formed a five-member committee to draft a constitution. The committee chaired by Prof Nandita Gupta from the Department of Education, included Prof Sukhbir Kaur, former DSW (Women), Prof Ashok Kumar and Prof Jagtar Singh. As per the draft of the constitution, the PUCSC president will be liable for executive decision-making, policy direction and financial transparency, while the vice-president will support the president in all matters and will be acting as head in his absence.

The secretary will have written records of all decisions taken by the council and the joint secretary will mainly maintain expenditure statements and a working ledger. The financial responsibilities of department representatives have also been specified in the approved draft.