Chandigarh: A Quieter Campaign for PUCSC Elections
The campaigning for the Panjab University Campus Students’ Council (PUCSC) elections wrapped up on Saturday, August 31, with a noticeably calmer atmosphere compared to previous years. This time around, there were fewer clashes between competing student groups, setting a different tone for the election period.
Despite the peaceful environment, the campaign was still very active. Student organizations engaged in door-to-door outreach and visited hostels, ensuring their presence was felt across the campus. Many supporters, including outside leaders linked to various student and political factions, were also part of the buzz.
Notably, former president of the Delhi University Students’ Union, Ronak Khatri, joined the campaign trail to support candidates from the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI).
The reduction in hostilities could be attributed to a smaller group of candidates this year. Only four individuals are competing for the president’s position, in stark contrast to previous years when there were eight candidates in 2025 and nine in both 2023 and 2024. This decrease has made the contest feel less crowded while maintaining a high level of political activity.
On the last day of campaigning, candidates were seen undertaking foot marches in girls’ hostels as arranged by the university. The prescribed campaign hours were enforced from 5 PM to 9 PM, based on schedules set by university authorities, who emphasized the need for maintaining order.
However, there were signs that some candidates didn’t entirely abide by the rules put forth by the Lyngdoh Committee, as campaign stickers were found scattered around the campus. Additionally, certain campaign groups tried to extend their efforts beyond authorized parameters, including attempts to utilize vehicles during rallies close to the girls’ hostels. Security and university officials had to step in to manage these activities.
The presence of outside supporters remained a key aspect of this election cycle, with many showing up as candidates made their final appeals for votes. Nevertheless, the campaign ended without significant confrontations, which is a departure from the more aggressive scenes often witnessed in the past.
With the campaigning phase now concluded, all eyes are on polling day, where students will have the opportunity to vote for their next PUCSC leaders.
