They are called “passports”, which promise to place you on the merit list of Lucknow University (LU). Introduced for the first time, these palm-size “passports” — a compilation of important questions with answers on every graduation subject — are keeping LU teachers on their toes. Owing to its unique size, these ‘passports’ for backpaper/improvement examinations have become the most sought-after copying material for the “copy-cats” appearing in the ongoing backpaper examinations. “We are daily nabbing around 20 examinees with ‘passports’ in their wallets,” said LU proctor Dr AN Singh. According to LU officials, the specially-designed passports have the “sole intention” of promoting copying. “Students preparing chits and getting the notes photocopied in microform is passe. ‘Passports’ now stand as the best suited and quick alternative copying material. With such copying material available in the market, the copy-cats feel that preparing the microform of study material is a sheer wastage of time and energy and therefore opt for these passports,” said a Proctorial Board member. A cursory look at any book stall, especially those on the varsity campus reflects the “importance” of these “passports” among the students. “The response we are drawing is amazing. Amongst all examination-related items, these ‘passports’ are the most sought-after,” said Harish Kumar, owner of a book stall on the old campus. And the ‘passports’ are not only finding a place in the students’ wallets because of their size, but also because they come easy of the wallets. It costs Rs 20, and on purchase of class notes or question banks, priced at Rs 35 and Rs 50, respectively, comes absolutely free, said Kumar. Leaders flout orders Amidst the beat of drums, controversial student leader Ram Singh Rana flagrantly displayed his strength on the old campus of LU. Rana, believed to be an active Samajwadi Party worker, came to the campus with his cavalcade to celebrate his release from jail. A few days ago, after being expelled from the varsity, Rana surrendered before the police and was arrested. Along with Rana, Sona Verma also visited the campus with their supporters. It may be recalled that both Rana and Verma’s entry to the varsity was prohibited after expulsion orders were issued against them.
