Panjab University student union elections

The Panjab University Campus Students’ Council elections saw a significant political shift when the Student Organisation of India (SOI), the student wing of the Shiromani Akali Dal, announced unconditional support for the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). This alliance occurred after the SOI’s own presidential candidate had their nomination papers rejected.

Following this endorsement, ABVP candidate Ankit Bidhan won the presidency, allowing the ABVP to retain the post for a second consecutive term. Bidhan, a PhD research scholar, secured his victory with a margin of approximately 500 to 556 votes, defeating Adil Barar of the Aam Aadmi Party student wing (ASAP) and Gurunam Singh Sidhu of the NSUI.

Bidhan characterized the result as a “victory for the entire Gen-Z community,” stating it reflects faith in the ABVP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While local campus issues—such as hostel facilities, fee increases, and campus security—were primary campaign drivers, the alliance between the ABVP and SOI has drawn broader political attention. Observers noted the result may signal potential future alignments between the BJP and SAD for upcoming Punjab Assembly elections.