Female students residing at the University Hostel for Women (UHW) at Delhi University staged a late-night protest on campus on Thursday, alleging forced eviction, disruption of essential facilities, and imposition of additional charges by the hostel administration.
According to the All India Students’ Association (AISA), the protest began around 9:30 pm, when students gathered for a sit-in on the road within the campus. The demonstration continued past midnight, drawing attention to what students described as “unfair and abrupt decisions” affecting their accommodation and basic living conditions.
The protesting students claimed that despite having paid hostel fees for the months of June and July, they were being pressured by the administration to vacate their rooms. Many alleged that they had been facing sustained pressure over the past week, creating uncertainty during a critical academic period.
Students also raised concerns about disruption of essential facilities within the hostel. They alleged that water supply had been cut off in at least two blocks, severely affecting daily life. Additionally, chairs were reportedly removed from the reading room, making it difficult for residents to prepare for upcoming semester examinations and competitive tests such as NEET.
AISA, which supported the protest, stated that these issues had escalated after an earlier demonstration held on May 16. According to the student body, the hostel warden had verbally assured residents at the time that facilities would be restored and their stay would be extended without complications.
However, students alleged that the administration later reversed its stance. They claimed that a new order was issued requiring those continuing to stay in the hostel to pay an additional charge of ₹450 per day. The student organisation strongly criticised the move, calling it “extortion” and accusing the authorities of violating students’ dignity and rights.
“The administration’s actions are arbitrary and insensitive, especially at a time when students are preparing for crucial exams,” AISA said in a statement, adding that many residents depend on hostel facilities and cannot arrange alternative accommodation at short notice.
The protestors have put forward a set of demands, including the resignation of the UHW Provost, immediate restoration of uninterrupted 24-hour water supply, and permission to continue their stay in the hostel without any additional financial burden.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Delhi University administration or hostel authorities regarding the allegations. The situation remains tense, with students vowing to continue their protest until their concerns are addressed.
The incident has once again highlighted ongoing concerns about student accommodation and administrative policies in university hostels, particularly during examination periods when stability and access to basic facilities are critical for academic performance.
