PU Elections 2025: Ballot, Booze and Bash as Student Parties Defy Lyngdoh Norms

Chandigarh: With just days to go before the Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC) elections on September 3, student organisations are leaving no stone unturned to woo voters. Instead of debating issues that matter to students, several parties are focusing on grand celebrations — with DJs, food, and even liquor — raising serious questions about the sanctity of campus polls.

Despite the Lyngdoh Committee guidelines capping a candidate’s election spending at ₹5,000, student bodies are splurging lakhs on off-campus events. The minimum cost of booking a club in Chandigarh or Panchkula stands at ₹2 lakh, and expenses rise with liquor, snacks, singers, and large crowds.

Parties turn into campaign hubs

On August 26, the Student Organisation of India (SOI), backed by INSO, HIMSU, and SOPU, hosted a party at a Sector 5 club in Panchkula. Videos from the event, attended mostly by freshers, were openly shared on social media. SOI’s leaders appealed for votes for their presidential candidate Harmehak Singh Cheema.

In another instance, Indian Students Front (ISF) and NSUI joined hands for a bash at a Phase 1 club in Industrial Area, where presidential candidate Rizwal Sidhu campaigned on stage. Similar events were organised by Sanatan Dharam College Union (SDCU), often featuring live singers, flashing big screens, and speeches.

Violation of liquor laws

Most attendees at these events are between 17 and 23 years old, while Chandigarh’s legal drinking age is 25. Club managers, however, admit liquor is served “on demand” if Aadhaar verification is shown. Videos on Instagram and reels from these bashes show liquor bottles on tables, making violations hard to deny.

Micro reflection of society

Prof. Pampa Mukherjee, Head of Political Science at PU, remarked:

“Student elections are a micro reflection of society. Political mobilisation has shifted from ideas to materialism, aided by social media. Eventually, students themselves will face the consequences.”

First-year students, however, see it differently. “At least we get to enjoy. These parties make leaders more approachable,” said Gehna Chauhan, a BA student. Another BSc student admitted the events are “a way to build vote banks” but also a “vital college experience.”

Student leaders defend themselves

Candidates insist the parties are harmless.

“College authorities don’t hostB freshers’ parties. Students demand them, so we contribute collectively,” said Harmehak Singh Cheema (SOI).

Anirudh, contesting from SDCU-SOPU-HIMSU, said: “It’s just a welcome gesture. Only snacks and soft drinks are served.”

Meanwhile, Dean of Students’ Welfare Amit Chauhan maintained that if evidence surfaces of canvassing at these events, strict action will be taken.

Next Big Date: Voting for the PUCSC elections will be held on September 3, 2025