CM Vijay's Surprise Hostel Visit Exposes Students' Complaints Over Safety, Food and Facilities

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay paid a surprise visit to the M.C. Raja Social Justice Hostel in Saidapet, Chennai , on Friday, where students candidly shared a wide range of concerns over safety, infrastructure, food quality and staff behaviour .

During an interaction with the Chief Minister, students said the hostel's strict curfew timings have become a major challenge for those attending UPSC and TNPSC coaching classes or working part-time jobs. According to the residents, those returning after curfew are often denied entry and forced to spend the night outside the hostel or in nearby public parks, leaving them vulnerable to harassment and robbery .

The students also highlighted poor living conditions , complaining of frequent water shortages , insufficient drinking water and broken, unhygienic restrooms that are not cleaned regularly. They further alleged that the quality of food served has remained unsatisfactory, claiming kitchen staff fail to follow basic hygiene practices such as wearing gloves and hairnets while preparing meals.

Security* emerged as another major issue. Students informed the Chief Minister that although the hostel requires *64 CCTV cameras* , only a limited number are currently installed, with surveillance largely restricted to reading areas while *residential corridors remain uncovered* . They claimed the lack of adequate monitoring has contribut *ed to thefts, internal disputes and senior-junior ragging.

Residents also accused some hostel staff, including watchmen and supervisors , of using abusive and derogatory language , causing mental distress to students, many of whom come from economically weaker sections . They further pointed to a shortage of staff and alleged that recreational facilities, including the volleyball court , have remained locked for a long time despite repeated requests for access.

The surprise inspection gave students a direct opportunity to place their grievances before Chief Minister Vijay , bringing renewed attention to the condition of government-run social justice hostels and the need to improve student welfare, safety and basic living standards.