Patna University Student Union Polls: Campaigning Concludes with Heated Debate on Reforms
Campaigning for the highly anticipated Patna University Students’ Union (PUSU) elections, scheduled for Saturday, officially came to a close on Thursday evening. In strict adherence to election regulations, all candidates and their supporters ceased visits to colleges and hostels after 5 pm, marking the end of a spirited pre-poll phase.
Open-House Debate Highlights Key Student Issues
Earlier in the day, the university’s election committee organized a significant open-house debate at the Patna Science College grounds. This event provided a platform for all 11 presidential candidates to present their agendas for reforms and development directly to the student body.
Each candidate was allotted five minutes to address the audience, during which they outlined comprehensive measures aimed at strengthening student welfare. A recurring theme emerged as several contestants emphasized the urgent need for enhanced protection and security for girl students. Additionally, many reiterated the long-standing demand for converting Patna University into a central university, seeking facilities and resources on par with those available in central institutions. The issue of girls’ safety was raised by almost every candidate, underscoring its critical importance.
Concerns Over Teacher Shortages and Infrastructure
Most candidates voiced serious concerns over the acute shortage of teachers across departments, demanding the immediate filling of all vacant posts to improve academic quality. Some pressed for the establishment of placement cells in every college and postgraduate department to facilitate campus recruitment and boost career opportunities for graduates.
Others called for improved infrastructure to support sports and cultural activities, highlighting the need for a more holistic campus environment. The diverse group of candidates who participated included Anushka Kumari (ABVP), Prince Kumar (Chhatra Janata Dal), Geeta Kumari (AISF), Shantanu Shekhar (NSUI), Saba Afreen (AISA), and independents Abhishek Kumar, Anshal Kumar, Divya Kumari, Rinkle Yadav, Santu Kumar, and Shiv Kumar.
Strong Student and Administrative Turnout
Hundreds of students from various Patna University institutions attended the debate, listening patiently as candidates articulated their visions for the future. The event also saw the presence of key university officials, including PU chief election officer Shankar Kumar, dean of students’ welfare Yogendra Kumar Verma, registrar Shalini, proctor Manoj Kumar, and several senior faculty members and university officers, reflecting the administration’s engagement with the electoral process.
As the campaigning phase wraps up, the focus now shifts to the polling day, where students will cast their votes to decide the next leadership of the Patna University Students’ Union. The debates have set the stage for a competitive election, with issues like safety, academic resources, and institutional upgrades at the forefront of student concerns.
