Patna : Patna University has announced the reopening of its student hostels after nearly a year-long closure. The decision was finalised in a meeting of the hostel committee on Thursday, chaired by the university’s vice-chancellor and attended by officials from the district and police administration.
Hostel facilities had been suspended following the murder of BN College student Harsh, prompting the university to vacate all hostels by 31 May last year. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) had raided five hostels in connection with the case. Since then, the buildings remained shut, pending a review of security and administrative concerns.
Students whose academic sessions are still ongoing and who were previously allotted hostel rooms can reapply for accommodation between 21 and 26 April. Although the exact date for reopening the hostels has not yet been confirmed, the university has issued an official notification to initiate the application process.
PU Student Union President Maithili Mrinalini hailed the move as “a victory for the students of the entire university.” Treasurer Soumya Srivastava and Joint Secretary Rohan Kumar also welcomed the decision. General Secretary Saloni Raj, who had boycotted last week’s oath-taking ceremony in protest, said the administration had “bowed to the pressure and solidarity” of students.
However, Faraday Hostel at Patna College will remain closed for now. Students from that facility will be accommodated in other college hostels, including Patna Science College. Renovation work is expected to begin shortly.
