With the Panjab University Bachao Morcha entering its 20th day today, students are preparing for a large all-party meeting that is expected to decide the next phase of their agitation.
The gathering, scheduled at the Students’ Centre committee room, will bring together dozens of student organisations along with representatives from farmer unions, civil society groups and alumni who have been supporting the demand for a clear Senate election schedule.
Student Union Vice-President, Ashmeet Singh said that the meeting has become necessary because the situation on campus has reached a standstill. "Academic activity has already been disrupted, with several departments postponing internal exams and practical tests after the protest intensified".
According to students, the uncertainty will only grow unless the administration publicly notifies the Senate poll process.
The Morcha insists that the elections must be announced at the earliest and verbal updates will not end the sit-in.
Many of the groups attending today’s meeting are expected to formally back the stand that the agitation will continue until a written notification is issued.
Support for the protest has widened significantly over the past week. Farmer groups, youth organisations and members of political outfits have been visiting the campus, offering both solidarity and assistance. Students say this growing support has lifted morale but has also made it important for them to plan the next steps carefully and collectively.
The run-up to the meeting has seen some friction with the administration. Organisers had originally asked for a larger venue but were denied permission, leading to a brief standoff before the venue was shifted to the Students’ Centre. Several students have also claimed they received warnings or notices.
Preparations for the meeting continued late into Wednesday night, with volunteers arranging seating, coordinating speakers and ensuring that representatives from every organisation could attend.
Students say they will review all developments of the past 19 days, list unresolved concerns, and finalise a common strategy to present to the university authorities.
Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor recently stated that a draft schedule for Senate polls has been sent to the Chancellor for approval. Students, however, say that after weeks of uncertainty, only an official public notification will be acceptable.
As the mega meeting is about to start, the campus carries a mix of atmosphere, with many students believe the decisions taken today will guide whether the protest escalates further or moves towards a negotiated way forward.