After landmark victory, Sohal says ‘priorities are academics and to restore the glory of PU’

Describing the party as a grassroots organisation, that is structured and systematic, the newly elected president says he connects with the fact that hierarchy is not bypassed, and the results are achieved.

Sohal did his schooling and college in Ludhiana, with his father a businessperson, and his mother Rajni a homemaker. “She (mother) was very excited about the elections. I added her to the group, so she could see my progress, and she also did some video calls,” smiles Sohal, who has a group of friends here from Ludhiana to offer him support and celebrate the big win.

The ABVP leader says his interest is politics and his inspiration is his grandfather, Sardar Gurjeet Singh Sohal, and he is what he is today because of his teachings and blessings.

“I dedicate this win to him (grandfather). My values and character are because of his belief system. As a social worker, he would address the problems of people and help them selflessly. Our home was always full of people, and he would settle their disputes, and from him I leaned towards student welfare and understood that we can create change with honest politics, and this one is for him,” says Sohal, adding that the civil services and politics were his first career choices.

His work is cut out as the new president of the PUCSC, available 24×7 for student welfare, addressing student demands and taking them to the administration for resolution.

“The priority is academics, and restore the glory of PU, and improve its rankings by providing more facilities to students for research, improving the curriculum, providing skill development opportunities, ensuring campus walk-in-interviews and placements to students. We are also against the fee hikes in some departments, and the affidavit that curbs students’ rights to protest. We want at least one seat reserved for women in the student council, enhanced security and safety for women, collaboration with security personnel for their training,” shares Sohal, adding that ABVP will seek assistance from the Education Department at the Centre to elevate the academic level of PU.

A fitness freak who works out on PU grounds and the gym for three hours a day, Sohal says the party will work for better facilities and opportunities for sportspersons of PU. “Improving facilities in hostels, especially purified water in every block, new menus that are high in nutrition and hygiene are high on our priority list,” adds Sohal, a Punjabi from Ludhiana.

Working on the thesis, ‘Virtual Digital Assets Management and Deep Fakes’, the ABVP leader enjoys listening to traditional and classical Indian music and has also learnt to play the tabla. “I love bhangra and have participated in youth festivals, and today’s celebrations with friends will be many rounds of bhangra.”

As to his winning mantra, Sohal says listening to the problems of students and understanding their needs was his motto. “I take this moment to thank all those who voted for me and showed their trust. I promise I will not break your trust and will fight for your rights,” he concludes.