Patna University Student Leader Boycotts Oath Over Hostel Row

Newly elected Patna University Students' Union (PUSU) general secretary Saloni Raj created waves at the swearing-in ceremony by refusing to take oath, demanding the reopening of boys' hostels which have been shut since November.

Patna University

Speaking from the stage at Wheeler Senate Hall, Saloni declared, “I will not take oath until the hostels are reopened. My win belongs to all those students who supported me through thick and thin. One of our key demands during the campaign was hostel allotment—and that remains unmet.”

The closure of hostels due to unrest has left many outstation students struggling to find affordable accommodation, while the university faces revenue losses. Despite the issue being raised during meetings with the Chancellor last October, the hostels remain inaccessible.

While Saloni stood her ground, the rest of the PUSU central panel took oath, including VP Dheeraj Kumar, Joint Secretary Somya Srivastava, and Treasurer Rohan. Saloni, an independent candidate, had emerged as the top vote-getter with 4,274 votes.

Of the five central panel seats, three were won by women, including ABVP-backed presidential candidate Maithil Mrinalini. Saloni’s bold move has amplified student voices and renewed focus on the longstanding hostel issue.

Patna University, once a breeding ground for national leaders during the JP Movement, continues to reflect the spirit of student activism—even as mainstream politics leaves limited room for youth participation today.