CM Vijay's surprise stop at MC Rajah hostel; students flag food, hygiene issues

CHENNAI: Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Friday made a surprise inspection of the MC Rajah Students' Hostel in Saidapet, where students complained about poor food quality and inadequate maintenance of the hostel premises, prompting him to seek explanations from officials.

The unannounced visit came after the Chief Minister concluded review meetings at the Secretariat. The hostel is run by the Department of Social Justice, formerly known as the Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department.

According to official sources, students told the Chief Minister that the quality of food improved only temporarily after complaints were raised with higher authorities and deteriorated again within a week. They also flagged poor maintenance of hostel rooms and the surrounding premises.
The Chief Minister sought details from Social Justice Minister Vanni Arasu, who accompanied him during the inspection. Vijay also inspected the hostel kitchen, toilets and the 10-storey hostel building, which was constructed at a cost of Rs 44.50 crore during the previous DMK regime.

Official sources said action is likely to be initiated against those responsible for lapses in maintaining food quality and cleanliness at the hostel.
Speaking to reporters after the inspection, Vanni Arasu said he was informed of the Chief Minister's visit only 10 minutes before he left the Secretariat.

"This was an important inspection aimed at ensuring good governance. Students at the hostel directly conveyed their demands and grievances to the Chief Minister," the minister said.

He added that the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure that students were provided with quality food.

Minister for Backward Classes Welfare V Sampath Kumar also accompanied the Chief Minister during the inspection.