PU Student Union Election: Nomination Dispute Sparks Protest
Student politics at Panjab University has entered full election mode, with several student organisations filing nominations for the upcoming student union elections.
Tension erupted on campus during the scrutiny of nomination papers after an SOI candidate’s nomination was rejected. SOI supporters protested the decision and shut the office of the Dean Student Welfare (DSW).
According to SOI supporters, the candidate’s attendance was earlier stated to be 78 per cent when they had sought information about the attendance record. However, they alleged that the attendance was later shown to be lower during the nomination process, resulting in the rejection of the candidate’s nomination.
Final Candidate List Expected on August 25
The nomination process for the PU student elections has been completed, and the submitted nomination papers are now being scrutinised.
A list of candidates who have filed nominations is expected to be released after the scrutiny process. The final list of candidates is expected on August 25, after which the electoral contest will become clearer.
Several Student Organisations Prepare for President’s Post
A number of student organisations have intensified their preparations for the election.
For the president’s post, names announced or being prepared include Ankit Bidhan from ABVP, Armaan Singh from PUDUF, Gurman Sidhu from NSUI, Adil Brar from AISA-P, Armaan Singh from AISA and Darshpreet Singh from Satth.
For the vice-president’s post, NSUI has fielded Aakanksha Thakur, while Ameen is expected to contest from AISA. Ramneek Parocha is also in the fray from ASA, although the exact post has not yet been clarified.
Hostel Issues, Security and Transparency Become Key Issues
Student organisations are focusing on issues directly affecting students. Hostel problems, campus security, cleanliness and transparency in the use of student funds have emerged as major election issues.
Candidates and student groups have increased their activities across hostels, the canteen and the Student Centre as they attempt to connect with voters.
Social Media Campaigning Gains Momentum
Election campaigning has also intensified on social media. Student organisations are using digital platforms to reach students and promote their candidates.
Posters and stickers are also being used across the campus, while candidates are meeting students at hostels, canteens and the Student Centre.
Last year, several student organisations contested the election through alliances. However, no major alliance has officially been announced so far this year.
The final candidate list on August 25 is expected to provide a clearer picture of the contest in the PU Student Union Election.