Patna University Requests Election Materials for Upcoming Student Union Polls
Patna University (PU) has officially approached the state's chief election officer to secure adequate supplies of ballot boxes and indelible ink for the forthcoming Patna University Students' Union (PUSU) elections, which are scheduled to take place on February 28. This formal request underscores the university's commitment to conducting a transparent and orderly electoral process for its student body.
University Meeting Sets Strict Election Guidelines
The call for election materials was initiated by PU Vice-Chancellor Namita Singh following a comprehensive meeting of university officials held in Patna on Friday. During this gathering, various aspects of the union elections were thoroughly discussed to ensure a smooth and fair voting experience. Vice-Chancellor Singh emphasized the importance of adhering to the election code of conduct, directing all committee members responsible for overseeing the polls to enforce strict compliance among contestants and their supporters.
Key directives issued include:
- Campaigning groups entering any college campus must be limited to no more than five students, with only one contestant allowed per group at any given time.
- Any violation of the established code of conduct will result in the immediate rejection of the candidate's nomination, as confirmed by the Vice-Chancellor.
Enhanced Security and Logistical Preparations
To bolster security and maintain law and order throughout the election period, the district administration will be formally requested to deploy sufficient police forces from February 21 through polling and counting day on February 28. PU Chief Election Officer Shankar Kumar announced that the number of polling booths has been increased to 41 to facilitate a more efficient and accessible voting process for all students.
The counting of votes will be conducted at the College of Arts and Crafts under stringent security measures, ensuring the integrity of the electoral results.
Election Timeline and Candidate Selection
The final list of candidates vying for the five key offices of the central panel and council members will be officially published on February 21. In the meantime, representatives from various student organizations are actively engaged in finalizing their candidates for the different union positions. The nomination filing process is set to occur from February 16 to 18, allowing ample time for prospective candidates to submit their paperwork.
In a move reminiscent of previous elections, a presidential debate will be organized well before the polling date, providing students with an opportunity to evaluate the contenders and their platforms. This debate is expected to play a crucial role in shaping voter opinions and promoting informed decision-making among the student electorate.