Hostel – Medical Students Protest Over Lack of Basic Facilities in Delhi Campus
Hostel – Medical students from Lady Hardinge Medical College in New Delhi staged a protest on Monday, voicing serious concerns about the lack of essential amenities in their hostel. The demonstration took place outside the director’s office, where students highlighted the difficulties they have been facing due to rising temperatures and inadequate infrastructure.
Students Demand Permission to Install Air Conditioners
One of the primary issues raised during the protest was the absence of cooling facilities in the girls’ hostel. With temperatures soaring in the national capital, students described their living conditions as uncomfortable and unsuitable for academic focus. They clarified that their demand was not for the institution to provide air conditioners, but simply to allow them to install units at their own expense.
According to several students, the administration has denied this request, citing concerns about outdated electrical wiring. However, they questioned this reasoning, pointing out that air conditioners are already installed in certain areas, including the warden’s office and older hostel buildings. This, they argued, reflects inconsistency in policy and a lack of consideration for student needs.
Impact of Heat on Academic Performance
Students emphasized that the intense heat is not just an inconvenience but a serious obstacle to their studies. Many reported difficulty concentrating on coursework, especially during peak afternoon and evening hours. For medical students, who often deal with rigorous schedules and demanding curricula, such conditions can significantly affect both physical well-being and academic performance.
A second-year student shared that studying in non-air-conditioned rooms during extreme heat has become increasingly challenging. The situation, she said, is particularly concerning during exam periods when students require a conducive environment for preparation.
Concerns Over Hygiene and Food Safety
Beyond the issue of cooling, protesters also raised alarms about the quality of food and hygiene in the hostel mess. Students alleged that meals are often contaminated with insects, raising serious questions about food safety standards. These concerns, they said, have been communicated to authorities multiple times but have not resulted in meaningful improvements.
In addition, students reported problems with drinking water. Many claimed that water coolers are either not functioning properly or provide water that appears unclean, adding to health risks within the hostel.
Sanitation and Health Risks Highlighted
Another major point of concern was the condition of washrooms and sanitation facilities. Students described them as poorly maintained and unhygienic, leading to frequent infections among residents. The lack of regular cleaning and maintenance has further aggravated the situation, making daily life increasingly difficult.
These sanitation issues, combined with poor water quality and food concerns, have created an environment that students described as unsafe and unhealthy.
Safety Issues Due to Stray Dogs
The presence of stray dogs on campus was also highlighted during the protest. Students reported incidents of dog bites and expressed fear, especially during late hours. The lack of proper measures to manage stray animals has added another layer of concern regarding campus safety.
Administration Assures Action
According to one student who participated in the protest, approximately 150 to 200 students gathered to raise their voices. Following the demonstration, the administration reportedly assured students that their concerns would be addressed within three days.
While this assurance has offered some hope, students remain cautious and expect concrete action. They stated that their protest was driven by necessity and a desire for basic living conditions that support both health and education.