Patna University has pressed the pause button on its student union elections for 2025-26, indefinitely postponing the February 28 vote following a spate of serious breaches. The move aims to rein in escalating disruptions that have marred the pre-poll phase.
Official notices pinpointed unauthorized incursions, such as supporters storming Patna Women’s College to rally with banners and slogans sans approval. Offenders also jumped the gun on promotions via lavish vehicles and illicit posters, flouting the code of conduct comprehensively.
Compounding issues, a classroom invasion at Patna Science College on January 21 involved rowdy confrontations with educators and administrators. In response, the university administration declared the elections on hold until further directives, prioritizing safety and compliance.
The announcement has ignited fervor among the 16 presidential aspirants, 9 vice-presidential hopefuls, matching numbers for secretary and treasurer slots, 8 joint secretary nominees, and 54 council contenders. Campaigns were peaking, leaving a void filled with anxious deliberations.
By taking this stand, Patna University reinforces its commitment to disciplined democracy. The lack of a new schedule fuels debates on enforcement, with calls growing for structured guidelines to prevent recurrences and expedite rescheduling.