Social welfare minister orders probe into issues at Maharani's hostel

Following the protest by the students of Maharani’s College hostel on Sunday, Social Welfare Minister H Anjaneya, on Monday, promised them of resolving the issues soon.

A large number of students had staged a protest in front of the hostel, alleging irregularities, poor quality of food and lack of facilities. The minister, who was in the city to attend a function, met the students and assured them to solve the issues. 

Anjaneya said that an inquiry will be conducted into the issue and about the quality of food served in the hostel. 

“Two deputy directors will conduct an inquiry and submit a report within 15 days.

 The authorities will be punished if they are found guilty. The hostel management should take the students into confidence by providing them the government facilities and quality food. The state government is spending Rs 1,400 per month on a student in the hostel to provide quality food. The hostel authorities are mandated to display the food menu on the notice board,” he said.

The students alleged that the hostel authorities collect full fee even if the students are away from the hostel for many days in a month. The students said, “The authorities collect excess amount from each student towards medical assistance but, no medical facilities are being provided.”

The minister said, “In view of shortage of hostels in parts of the state, the government has decided to grant funds to the students to continue their studies by residing in rented houses under Vidyasiri scheme. 

“Each student will be provided Rs 1,500 per month for rent. The government aims at bringing one lakh students under the scheme this year, whereas, 90,000 students were benefitted last year. The government will not allow any SC/ST student to be out of hostels,” he added.