Madam President

KANUPRIYA, 22 Panjab university student leader, Patti, Tarn Taran

BECAUSE

She is the first woman president of the Panjab University Students Council, a position that has always been held by a man. She has not only broken this glass ceiling on a campus known for its largely masculine discourse, she has also changed the conversation in the politics of the varsity by focusing on issues such as academic excellence and an egalitarian space for women. Old-timers say they have never come across such a responsive leader. Kanupriya is on call for everyone on the campus round the clock. Students say she does not merely believe in paying lip service and tries to make a difference. When elected, she had famously said that her work begins now. She is also lauded for not spending a paisa on her election to woo voters.

SECRET OF SUCCESS

I dream of an egalitarian society where there are no divisions of caste or class. I believe in the politics I follow.

THE GOAL NEXT

My immediate goal is to get the authorities at PU to provide its hostel inmates the freedom to step out 24/7.

MY ROLE MODEL

I will name Bhagat Singh and crores of people whose name I don’t know but who made sacrifices for progressive change and for their coming generations.

BY THE WAY

I am also fond of photography. I pursue this hobby of mine, whenever I get a chance.

SECOND OPINION

“Kanupriya is a fearlessly responsible individual. I greatly admire her.”

–Hassanpreet Kaur,

SFS presidential candidate, 2017