The Boys' Hostel No. 8 mess at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has sparked concerns amongst students as worms and cockroaches are being found in the food served in the mess. The entire episode has raised serious concerns regarding hygiene and food safety. The incident was reported on Thursday.
In response, students and representatives of various student organisations collectively decided to shut down the mess on Friday. Taking the matter further, they were set to meet the Vice-Chancellor on Saturday, along with members of the Food Quality Control Committee, to demand immediate action. However, the meeting did not take place.
Meanwhile, the students are demanding the establishment of a centralised kitchen to ensure better food quality. Alternatively, they have suggested that the mess management be handed over to the Sai Baba Sansthan in Shirdi, which is known for its well-maintained food services.
Rahul Sasane, a member of the Food Quality Control Committee, said, "We need a centralised kitchen and we need some urgent solution to protect students' health. The issue has raised the discussions among the students and they are hoping for a swift resolution."
The Free Press Journal contacted Vice-Chancellor Dr Suresh Gosavi. However, he said, "I'm not aware of the issues, therefore I can't give any comment. I'll check with other officials and will get back to you. I'm in Delhi for some work."
On the condition of anonymity, an SPPU official stated, "The only solution to this is giving the contact to some good food caterer or to have a centralised kitchen. Every few months, this kind of incident is being reported and it's not good for the university's reputation so strict measures should be taken."
