PUSU’s Saloni Raj Refuses Oath, Demands Reopening of Boys’ Hostels
In a bold and unexpected move, newly elected Patna University Students’ Union (PUSU) general secretary Saloni Raj declined to take the oath of office during the official swearing-in ceremony, citing the unresolved issue of the closed boys’ hostels. The dramatic stance sent shockwaves through the university campus and has ignited a fresh debate around student rights and administrative accountability.
A Statement of Solidarity and Protest
Standing on the dais of the historic Wheeler Senate Hall, packed with cheering students, Saloni made a powerful declaration: “As students are still not allowed to reside in dorms, I will not be taking the oath. My victory is not mine alone—it belongs to every student who stood by me. This mandate is a voice of protest and will not be complete until the boys’ hostels are reopened.” Her speech was met with loud applause and slogans in support of her cause.
Saloni, who contested as an independent candidate, emerged as the highest vote-getter in the election, securing 4,274 votes—an impressive lead that reflected the overwhelming support from the student body. Her refusal to be sworn in until the hostels are reopened has now become a rallying point for students who feel neglected and unheard by the administration.
PUSU Hostel Crisis: A Lingering Issue
The closure of the boys’ hostels at Patna University since November last year has been a source of growing frustration among students. University officials cite “instability” as the reason behind the prolonged shutdown, though specific details remain vague. Despite repeated student demands and assurances from the administration, the hostels have not been reopened, forcing many outstation students to fend for themselves in expensive and often unsafe accommodations outside the campus.
The university’s decision has not only affected students academically and emotionally but has also led to financial losses both for the institution and the student community. “The hostel fee structure is far more affordable than private PGs or rented flats. Most of us come from modest backgrounds, and this has hit us hard,” said Ravi Prakash, a second-year history student from Gaya.
Meetings with the Chancellor Yielded No Results
Last October, representatives from various student organizations met with the Chancellor to discuss several student-related issues, including the hostel crisis. While verbal assurances were given, there has been little to no follow-up in terms of concrete action. According to student leaders, the administration’s inaction points to a deeper disregard for student welfare.
“It’s been months. The meeting with the Chancellor felt like a formality,” said one of the student leaders present during the discussions. “The hostels are lying unused, and the university is losing revenue. But it’s the students who are paying the real price—academically, financially, and mentally.”
Mixed Reactions to Saloni’s Move
While Saloni’s protest has garnered widespread support among the student community, reactions among university officials and political observers have been mixed. Some see it as a necessary stand to push for real change, while others view it as a politically charged gesture that might hinder the functioning of the newly elected student body.
Despite the controversy, the rest of the central panel members, including President Maithil Mrinalini (backed by BJP ally ABVP), Vice President Dheeraj Kumar, Treasurer Rohan, and Joint Secretary Somya Srivastava, proceeded to take the oath and officially assumed office.
Women Dominate Central Panel
Interestingly, this year’s PUSU elections saw a strong presence of women candidates. Out of the five central panel positions, three were secured by women, including the presidency. This is being seen as a progressive shift in the traditionally male-dominated student political landscape.
President Maithil Mrinalini, in her post-oath speech, appreciated Saloni’s spirit and acknowledged the hostel issue as a legitimate concern. “I hope we can work together to resolve this. We may represent different groups, but the student welfare agenda is shared by all,” she said.
A Legacy of Student Politics and Resistance
PUSU elections have historically played an important role in Bihar’s political landscape. Though the broader political space for youth in state politics has narrowed in recent decades, these elections still capture public attention due to their symbolic connection with student activism and grassroots democracy. Patna University has been the cradle of many political movements, most notably the students’ movement led by Loknayak Jai Prakash Narayan in the 1970s.
Saloni Raj’s defiance echoes that legacy of resistance. Her act of protest is being hailed as a return to issue-based student politics, where representation is not just ceremonial but grounded in advocacy.
What Lies Ahead for PUSU
It remains to be seen how the university administration will respond to the mounting pressure. With Saloni refusing to take office until the hostels are reopened, the general secretary’s chair remains vacant despite the formation of the rest of the student panel. This unusual situation may force the university to act swiftly or risk further unrest.
Students and activists are now planning peaceful demonstrations and signature campaigns in support of Saloni’s demand. There is also talk of escalating the matter to the state education department if no timely solution is found.
For now, Saloni Raj stands firm in her belief that without basic facilities like housing, student politics cannot truly represent the needs of the youth. “I’m not here for a title. I’m here for change,” she said as she left the dais—unbowed, unapologetic, and with the students behind her.
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