Punjab Health Minister Faces Student Protest Over Punjabi University's Rs 150 Crore Debt

Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh faced protests from students during a state-level event at Punjabi University, Patiala, where demonstrators raised concerns over the institution's financial crisis, deteriorating hostel infrastructure and the need for increased government funding.

Members of the Democratic Students Organisation (DSO) confronted the minister, demanding that the Punjab government waive the university's reported Rs 150 crore debt and immediately release pending financial assistance.

Students raise funding concerns

The protest took place during the launch of the Punjab AIDS Control Society's Intensified IEC Campaign 3.0, where Dr Balbir Singh attended as the chief guest.

Student protesters questioned the minister over the university's financial condition and urged the state government to provide financial support to address the institution's mounting debt.

According to the Democratic Students Organisation, when asked about the funding issue, the minister reportedly advised students to approach the Education Minister, stating that he was the Health Minister and did not have information regarding the university's finances.

The response prompted criticism from the protesters, who questioned how a state minister visiting the university could be unaware of the institution's financial challenges.

Students highlight poor hostel infrastructure

Apart from financial issues, students also raised concerns over hostel facilities on the university campus.

According to the student organisation, hostels continue to face several problems, including:

• Overcrowded rooms with three to four students sharing a single room
• Inadequate drinking water facilities
• Poor sanitation and insufficient toilets
• Lack of basic infrastructure and amenities

The protesters demanded the construction of new hostels and renovation of existing residential facilities to improve living conditions for students.

Warning against fee hike

The Democratic Students Organisation also opposed any proposal to increase university fees.

The student body warned that any fee hike would place an additional burden on students already facing financial difficulties and could trigger larger protests on campus.

The organisation further stated that if the Punjab government fails to release funds and address the university's financial crisis, it will intensify its agitation against both the university administration and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led state government.

Protest reflects wider concerns over university finances

The demonstration highlights growing concerns among students over the financial health of Punjabi University and its impact on campus infrastructure and student welfare.

With demands ranging from debt relief and government funding to improved hostel facilities, students have signalled that they will continue their protests if their concerns remain unresolved.