PAU, students at crossroads over uniform

Jaswant Shetra

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, February 20

Students of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) protested against the varsity authorities for deciding to make uniform necessary for them from the next semester.

Agitating students said the university authorities had been trying to forcefully implement their decision on them.

“Dean College of Agriculture in an advisory meeting a few days ago announced to make uniform compulsory for students from the next semester. We will not allow the authorities to turn Punjab Agricultural University into Punjab Agricultural School,” said a protesting varsity student.

Agitating students also opposed the ban imposed on entry of cars of students and their family members in the varsity campus.

Students gathered at Gate No. 2 of the university and asked security staff to allow them to enter campus in their four wheelers. However, as they were denied entry, irate students protested against the university.

“Students and their family members are not allowed to take their cars inside the campus. However, outsiders can often be seen entering varsity on four wheelers. Who allows them the entry?” asked another student.

The protest which began at 1 pm continued till 5 pm in the evening. Students also blocked a road near the hospital in the varsity and alleged that no one came forward from the PAU to hear their genuine demands.

Agitating students also objected to a ban imposed on carrying mobile phones in lecture halls and parking of two wheelers opposite Nescafe.

The protesting students said the university was trying to curb their freedom and they would continue to protest in case the authorities fail to meet their demands and address them at the earliest.

PAU Estate Officer Dr Vishvajit Singh Hans said entry of cars belonging to students cannot be allowed in the campus. Students have been provided with alternative facilities, including e-rickshaw and buses, he said.

“No decision has been taken to make uniform compulsory for students in the campus. We will speak to students and will try to convince them to end their protest,” said Dr Hans.