In a move aimed at strengthening hostel infrastructure and ensuring student welfare, SC Welfare Minister Sudhangshu Das carried out an unannounced inspection of the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Memorial Hostel and the SC Girls’ Hostel at Jagannath Bari. The minister reviewed facilities, checked student occupancy against sanctioned seats, and examined the availability of government‑provided amenities.

Speaking to reporters after the visit, Das explained that the inspection was intended to verify whether students were receiving the benefits allocated by the government. He noted that hostels had been equipped with computers and an open‑air gymnasium, and their maintenance and usage were closely examined during the visit.

At the Jagannath Bari hostel, students raised concerns about the quality of food and the services provided by trainers engaged for special programmes. Das assured them that their grievances had been formally recorded and that corrective measures would be taken promptly.

The minister also expressed concern over the quality of drinking water, particularly the high iron content reported by residents. He said that an iron‑removal unit had already been installed by the Public Health Engineering Department, but questioned why contamination persisted. He directed SDO and engineers to conduct immediate checks, and confirmed that a departmental officer would visit the hostel within the next two days to resolve the issue.

Das acknowledged that food quality had been a recurring issue in the past. He said earlier lapses by staff had led to their replacement, and new workers were now in place. He also referred to allegations of misconduct by some kitchen staff following disputes with students. According to him, the workers admitted their mistakes and were transferred to other hostels. “If someone accepts their fault and shows remorse, they should be given a chance to improve. But if irregularities occur again, strict action will follow,” he stated.

The minister reiterated that the welfare department is committed to ensuring a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for hostel residents. He emphasised that both infrastructure and services must meet standards, and pledged that immediate steps would be taken to address shortcomings.