Big turnout, less chaos on Day 2 of DU admission

NEW DELHI: There were a large number of candidates even on the second day of Delhi University’s centralized fitness tests but authorities conducting them clearly had a better grip on the situation. Parents and student union members were kept out of the premises on Friday.
Unlike on the first day, students were issued forms and slips at the entrance and only then allowed inside University Polo Ground.Entry to the venue was closed at 10.30am with about 1,800 students admitted inside. The remaining students were asked to leave. They could come and check if forms were available at 3pm or else report for their fitness test on Saturday. Tests were conducted for 1,400 boys and 400 girls on Friday.
The ones who returned at 3pm, though, faced disappointment. Anil Kalkar, secretary, DU Sports Council, said, “Looking at the number of candidates who’d completed the tests by 3pm, we chose not to give out any more forms for the day. About 500 students were issued slips and have been asked to report early on Saturday morning.”
At the venue, students started pouring in right from 7am. The tests, too, began an hour early. “On the first day, there was a lot of commotion because police and student groups opened the gates to all, not caring about the consequences,” said an official.
Many students were anxious after reading about photocopied forms being distributed by the student union members. “When I questioned the authorities regarding fake forms, they replied that forms have no particular identification number or code,” says Alekh Saxena, a candidate.
Parents had a tougher time. Many chose to remain at the spot even though they weren’t allowed inside; they sat on the pavements and drank lemonade from a street vendor. “She said she’ll be back in about three-and-a-half hours and if she doesn’t come, I’ll call her,” said Smita Chaturvedi. Of those who appeared, most were school-level players. Sushil Sharma, an official, said, “Among students who have cleared the test, many will be rejected by colleges due to lack of proper certification. They have only played at school level.”
University officials said they will try their best to complete the tests by June 20 which is also the last date to obtain forms and slips. A thin possibility remains of conducting the fitness test of a small number on Sunday, only if the participants have the required documents. However, the fitness tests are likely to be completed by Saturday.