CM Joseph Vijay Inspects Saidapet Hostel as Students Complain of Worms in Food

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay conducted a surprise inspection of the M C Rajah Adi Dravidar Hostel in Saidapet, Chennai, on Friday, where residents flagged severe issues regarding poor food quality, inadequate amenities, and safety concerns. During the visit, a group of students approached the Chief Minister midway as he was walking inside the facility, prompting him to stop and listen directly to their grievances.

The hostellers informed Chief Minister Vijay that the meals served at the government-run facility often contained worms and bugs. While the students noted that the quality of the food had improved briefly after they staged protests last year, they alleged that the standards deteriorated again within just a few days.

Kitchen hygiene was a major point of concern raised by the students. They alleged that the kitchen workers did not use basic protective gear, such as gloves or caps, while preparing the food.

Beyond the food quality, the students detailed a variety of inadequate amenities at the Saidapet hostel. These included an insufficient water supply, unclean bathrooms, and a general shortage of staff to maintain the facility.

Security lapses were also brought to the Chief Minister's attention. The students stated that only a fraction of the mandated 64 CCTV surveillance cameras had actually been installed on the premises. They further alleged that anti-social elements had managed to enter the hostel grounds.

The hostel's strict curfew policy was another issue highlighted during the inspection. Several students who are preparing for TNPSC and UPSC examinations explained that the hostel gates are locked by 9:30 p.m. This policy forces students who return late from work or coaching classes to sleep outside, including in nearby parks.

Finally, the students accused some of the hostel wardens and watchmen of verbally abusing them. They told the Chief Minister that this ongoing treatment has left many of the hostellers under severe psychological stress.