Jawaharlal Nehru College: A Persistent Problem of Inadequate Mess Management
In the picturesque town of Pasighat, East Siang district, a decades-old issue has been resurfacing at Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC), a residential college established in 1964. The problem lies in the inadequate mess management, leaving students, particularly those residing in the hostels, with insufficient food, especially dinner.
A Culture of Two Meals
The culture of serving only two meals at JNC's boys and girls hostels has been an entrenched aspect of college life for several decades. This situation has been attributed to the lack of effort from college administrators to improve the mess management system, leaving students at the mercy of wardens and prefects.
Students' Struggles and Coping Mechanisms
The lack of dinner has been a significant issue for students, with many resorting to buying electric cookers and stocking up on instant noodles and vegetables. This has resulted in additional expenses for the students, especially during semester exams, when studying becomes challenging due to hunger.
Demands for Change
Over the years, students have consistently demanded three meals a day, echoing the sentiments expressed in political manifestos like the Trinamool Congress' 2014 Lok Sabha election manifesto. However, these demands have yet to result in any tangible changes.
Blame Game and Responsibility
The issue has been a subject of blame game between hostel wardens, cooks, and students. While wardens and students accuse the cooks of irregular work, the cooks deny these allegations and claim they have never received strict instructions from college authorities.
The principal, Dr. Tasi Taloh, has a limited role in hostel mess management, as the responsibility has been delegated to the warden and the prefect. However, the principal admitted that the current state of affairs has persisted for the last two decades.
The high cost of commodities and vegetables, coupled with the insufficient mess fee, has contributed to the problem. Despite students raising concerns during the 2022-23 academic year, the situation remains unchanged.
Implications for Northeast India and Beyond
The issue at JNC is not unique to the college or even to Arunachal Pradesh. Across India, residential colleges often face challenges in providing adequate food and accommodations for students, particularly those from lower-income families.
In the context of Northeast India, where education is crucial for social mobility and economic development, addressing issues like inadequate mess management in residential colleges is essential. It is crucial to ensure that students can focus on their studies without the distraction of hunger and financial strain.
Looking Ahead
The persistent issue of inadequate mess management at JNC highlights the need for a more proactive and accountable approach from college authorities. Students deserve a conducive learning environment, which includes adequate food and accommodations.
It is hoped that the college authorities will take steps to address this issue, ensuring that students are not left hungry and struggling to make ends meet. Adequate food is a fundamental right, and it is high time that it becomes a priority in our educational institutions.