The English Press Club conducted a survey regarding the sudden 58% hike in hostel fees. Announced in early June, this increment sparked conversations regarding infrastructure, maintenance, hygiene, and transparency in communication. The survey, which received approximately 350 responses, aimed to understand students’ perspectives on the fee hike, the current state of their hostels, and improvements they would like to see.
A substantial majority of the respondents believe that the fee hike is unjustified, with over 90% deeming it ‘strongly unjustified’. When asked to rate the current living conditions of their hostel, the consensus is that it is ‘fair’, with an average rating of 2.07/5. An overwhelming majority of respondents are unhappy with the amenities offered. The most frequently mentioned concern was cleanliness, especially in washrooms, with over 80% citing this as a concern. Wi-Fi connectivity and the availability of water (especially hot water) remain prominent issues faced by almost two-thirds of the respondents.
Beyond general concerns, some issues were bhawan-specific. Meera residents reported extremely poor sanitary conditions in washrooms, and those in SR Bhawan were dissatisfied with the ‘paper-thin’ walls, which led to poor temperature control. Students also reported issues regarding stray dogs, small wardrobes, and electricity cuts (especially during exam season). Only students from Bhagirath reported some satisfaction with their allotted hostels. Despite their relative satisfaction with their hostel accommodations, they still viewed the fee hike as unjustified and raised concerns regarding stray dogs entering the hostel premises.
The surveyed students also shared the improvements they expected following the fee hike. The most common expectation was increased frequency of sanitation for better washroom hygiene. Students reported that seeing clogged toilets and empty soap dispensers was common, and despite multiple protests, these issues had not been resolved. A significant 75% demanded the installation of ACs or coolers in rooms, citing extreme temperatures throughout the summer months. Additionally, 68% emphasised the need for regular water and electricity supply, highlighting frequent shortages and power cuts, especially during exams.
Students from almost every hostel had also complained about the problem of stray dogs pulling out dustbins and spilling trash across their hallways. The respondents claimed the insect infestation added to this during the summer. Residents from SR Bhawan shared that their hallways were jam-packed with flies and mosquitoes. In light of the fee hike, 55% of the students said that they expected the installation of bug zappers or some other solution to this problem.
On the other hand, many shared how they expected no changes. They expressed their lack of confidence in the administration and their unwillingness to recognise student complaints.
When asked whether the fee hike would pose a financial burden, over 60% said yes. Many mentioned having to increase their student loans and increased family pressure. Students on Merit Cum Need (MCN) scholarship expressed their frustration as the scholarship does not cover the increased hostel fees. Feelings of hopelessness and frustration were unanimous, with some even saying they will have no choice but to drop out.
The survey results highlight the dearth of transparency between the administration and the students. Many expressed their lack of confidence in the administration and their unwillingness to recognise student complaints. The students expect clear communication about where their fees are being used, if at all.