Pune: Statewide Government Hostel Inspections to Ensure Student Safety and Comfort

Pune, 29th December 2024: Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat has issued a stern warning to contractors managing government hostels under the Social Welfare Department, stating that strict action will be taken against those failing to provide proper facilities, irrespective of their political affiliations or connections.

“The condition of some hostels is deplorable. Immediate action will be taken against any contractor responsible for this, regardless of which political party or leader-minister is associated with them,” Shirsat stated during a media interaction on Saturday.

The minister’s comments came after inspecting government hostels accommodating 250 girls in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. His daughter, Harshada Shirsat, accompanied him during the inspection.

Shirsat highlighted alarming conditions in hostels, particularly in Sambhajinagar, where basic amenities are severely lacking.

“Many hostels lack toilets, the kitchens are unhygienic, and there are no basic facilities. Broken doors and windows and inadequate security have also been reported. This situation is unacceptable, especially when crores of rupees are being spent. Complaints about such conditions have come in from multiple locations,” he said.

The minister announced plans for statewide inspections to assess the actual situation in government hostels. He assured that contractors who fail to deliver services will face strict penalties.

Commenting on the hostels in Pune, Shirsat noted that the conditions here are relatively better but acknowledged some shortcomings.

“During inspections, it was found that while the situation in Pune hostels is satisfactory, certain repairs and improvements are needed. Officials have been instructed to address these issues immediately. Information has also been collected about pending works, and steps will be taken to resolve them without delay,” Shirsat added.

The Social Welfare Department, under Shirsat’s leadership, aims to ensure that all government hostels provide proper facilities to students. “Efforts will be made to rectify the situation and improve conditions for the welfare of hostel residents,” he assured.