The English Press Club interviewed Abhinav Lamba, one of the three candidates contesting for the post of General Secretary.

A third-year student pursuing a dual degree in Mathematics and Computer Science, Abhinav was the representative of Ram-Budh (RB) mess during his second year. He stated that being the mess representative and working with the SSMS were among his best experiences. His initiatives include starting the first Da Cloud Cafe (DCC) on campus in the RB mess, starting the night canteen in the RB mess, facilitating the 24×7 pitstop in the KG mess, and his Google Drive for the 2022 batch. 

He stated that working as the RB Mess Representative motivated him to stand up for the post of General Secretary. According to him, being the only representative who was able to complete 90% of their manifesto within three months, he was inspired to contribute more and work for the entire campus. He emphasized that his experience working in the Finance and HR committee of SSMS could offer him an advantage in financial decision-making and inventory management.

Commenting on the role of an ideal General Secretary, he said that he believed an ideal General Secretary is one whom the students can ‘openly call their student representative’ and one whose academic background, commitments, and past records are good. He explained that in recent years, the SU had only been known by the GBM for ‘power trips’ and ‘working only for fests’. He aimed to change this culture and wished to ‘revamp the SU’. 

When asked about the changes he would like to bring about, Abhinav stated that his manifesto was majorly based on academics. He said that he was particularly passionate about making BITSians aware of Quantitative Finance, and introducing inter-BITS and inter-hostel coding competitions. He added that he wished to address the power cuts and water issues by implementing sustainable initiatives like rainwater harvesting and biogas plants. Additionally, he aimed to introduce an Inventory Digitization Portal to avoid fake signings, financial issues, and inventory misplacement during fests while promoting transparency. Other initiatives included conducting workshops, implementing a Freelancing Cell, introducing “Therapy Through Art”, and sensitizing workers to reduce the policing of girls.

He mentioned that he aspired to complete at least 60 to 70% of his manifesto. He highlighted that, in addition to his manifesto, there were several other initiatives he wished to undertake.

Talking about his camp, Abhinav pointed out that amongst the seven candidates, he was the sole candidate who was able to enlist a total of 39 campaigners out of the 40 stipulated by the EC. He elaborated that his camp was based on the close bond he shared with each member and not on any ‘false promises’.

He encouraged the 2023 batch to make an unbiased decision after reviewing all the candidates’ manifestos, looking at their past initiatives, and their profiles. He urged all BITSians to be impartial. ‘Vote zarur karna’, Abhinav concluded.