Amid the spread of jaundice at Utkal University, serious concerns have emerged over food safety and hygiene in the university hostels after a dead frog was allegedly found in a serving of soya chilli at Ladies Hostel-7.
The incident took place on Wednesday, leaving the hostel residents shocked and frightened. Following the discovery, several students refused to eat the food served at the hostel.
Later, at around 3 am, the hostel authorities reportedly provided the students with only bread and jam as an alternative meal.
Protesting against the incident and the alleged poor quality of food, the residents of Ladies Hostel-7 boycotted Wednesday’s lunch. The students alleged that complaints regarding unhygienic and contaminated food had been raised repeatedly in the past, but no effective action had been taken.
The hostel residents have warned that they will continue to boycott meals until the existing hostel mess is changed. They have demanded immediate action to ensure safe and hygienic food.
The incident has further heightened concerns among students as the university is already grappling with jaundice cases. While students have reportedly been advised against consuming outside food due to the risk of infection, they claim that hygienic food is not being provided inside the hostel either.
As a result, some students are reportedly being forced to return home due to concerns over their health and safety.
Following the incident, the Utkal University administration has reportedly stepped up its response. The Vice-Chancellor said that all hostels have been alerted, keeping students’ safety and well-being in mind.
Meanwhile, teams from the state Health Department and the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) have conducted health examinations of students. Water and food samples have also been collected for laboratory testing to determine whether they meet safety and hygiene standards.
The incident has raised serious questions about food quality, sanitation and the overall health and safety arrangements in the university hostels. Students are now demanding immediate corrective measures from the university authorities.