Punjab Newsline, Punjab:
Students Sustain Protest Through Community Support and Night Stays
The ongoing Panjab University Bachao Morcha, launched to demand the announcement of the Senate election schedule, has gradually transformed into a vibrant space of community service, drawing comparisons to a mini Kisan Morcha due to its expanding langar sewa.
For the past several weeks, the protest site located opposite the Vice Chancellor’s office has witnessed round-the-clock participation from students, local supporters, and even small children. What began as a routine demonstration has evolved into a coordinated effort of food distribution and collective support.
Each day, a variety of food items are offered to attendees, including dal, roti, tea, biscuits, choori, sandwiches, sugarcane juice, bread pakodas, rice, and kheer. These food contributions come from students, individuals from nearby villages, and various volunteer groups. This continuous supply has created an environment of solidarity and self-sustenance for the protesting students.
The protest site has also drawn the attention of political leaders, artists, and other public figures who have visited to express support. Despite the increasingly cold weather, students have remained stationed at the venue during both day and night. They sleep on mattresses and have installed small tents to maintain their presence and momentum in the protest.
A small literary corner has also been set up, offering a collection of books for visitors and participants. The initiative reflects the intellectual and cultural spirit accompanying the agitation.
According to Gagandeep Singh from Students for Society (SFS), the protest initially started with students making tea runs to a nearby canteen. Gradually, people from surrounding villages and city localities began contributing food and resources, turning the protest site into a community-supported hub of sewa. Singh noted that the diverse food offerings are now arriving voluntarily, supported by local residents and well-wishers moved by the cause.
The ongoing morcha remains peaceful but determined. Students emphasize that the core demand—announcing the long-pending Senate election schedule—remains unresolved. Their continued presence signals a growing frustration over administrative delays.
The combination of sustained participation, community backing, and daily langar service has strengthened the movement, highlighting both the resilience of the students and the cultural spirit of sewa that has become central to the protest.