Karan SharmaLudhiana: The Punjab bandh call over the Mansa incident brought academic activity across Ludhiana to a near standstill Thursday, with most schools remaining shut, college attendance plunging to 5-7% and mid-semester examinations being postponed in at least one govt college.While educational institutions remained officially open in many cases, classrooms wore a deserted look as students stayed away amid disruptions linked to the bandh call. Even hostel residents skipped classes in several colleges, reflecting concerns over movement and the prevailing situation.A senior functionary of Khalsa College for Women said attendance remained restricted to around 5-7% despite classes being conducted as scheduled.“The effect of the ongoing situation was visible in our college as well. Only about 5-7% students attended classes, though teaching staff continued with the academic schedule,” she said.She added that many hostel residents were also absent, with students apparently deciding in advance not to attend classes.The bandh’s impact extended to examinations as well. SCD Govt College postponed mid-semester examinations scheduled for Oct 15 for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.College principal Gursharanjit Singh Sandhu said students had been informed a day in advance and the deferred examinations would now be conducted on Oct 21.“All other examinations will continue as per the original schedule,” he said.Authorities said attendance among students not scheduled to appear in examinations remained below 5%.While students stayed away, teachers reported for duty as usual. Faculty members said no specific instructions regarding closure or attendance had been issued, compelling them to report to campuses despite sparse student presence.A teacher from a PU-affiliated college said several faculty members travelled long distances to attend classes that eventually saw little or no student turnout.
