Osmania University students protest insect-infested food served at girls’ hostel

Hyderabad: In a recent protest held by female students of the Osmania University (OU) in Hyderabad, concerns over poor food quality and hygiene in the girls’ hostel complex have come to light.

The students staged a demonstration, sitting with empty plates, to draw attention to their grievances regarding worms and insects found in the meals served.

According to reports, the students have been facing this issue since November 2023, with approximately 10 to 20 hostel residents falling ill due to stomach problems. The protesters expressed frustration over the administration’s lack of action despite repeated complaints.

“The oil is being reused multiple times. This issue has persisted since November, and when we approached the director with our concerns, she responded rudely and even threatened us. We encounter insects in the food two to three times every week,” a student revealed.

The reuse of cooking oil and the presence of insects pose serious health risks to the students.

Anjum Fatima, another student, questioned the authorities, stating, “This is not the first time poor-quality food has been served to us. Will the authorities give the same food to their children?"

The concern over the safety of the food served extends beyond the immediate health impact to a broader ethical perspective.

No action from administration

The lack of tangible action from the university’s administration has fuelled the discontent among the protesting students.

Ayesha Siddique, a student of OU, expressed disappointment in the administration’s response, stating, “They keep repeating the same thing. Either they say ‘we will send a memo’ or assure us better food quality. But there is no improvement whatsoever.”

“The poor food quality made us sick, and approximately 10 to 20 hostel students have fallen ill, experiencing stomach problems like food poisoning and diarrhoea,” said Winnie Thomas, a student.

“Insects in the food are a common occurrence, happening two to three times every week. If it happens once, it can be deemed as a mistake. But to find insects in almost every meal shows a lack of hygiene. It’s not just about the inconvenience; it’s affecting our health,” said another student.

Persistent problem

This incident is not the first time students have raised issues about the food quality at the ladies’ hostel complex.

In September 2022, allegations surfaced that a broken bangle piece was found in the food, highlighting a recurring problem. Complaints about watery sambhar and hard rice were also reported, indicating a persistent pattern of substandard catering services.