Gujarat National Law University (GNLU) is facing health concerns on campus after a student census found that 177 students have fallen ill in the residential halls. The cases include 93 of dengue, 10 of typhoid, 58 viral infections, 20 cases of food poisoning and 19 other infections.In a joint statement, students accused the university administration of failing to address concerns related to drinking water, food hygiene, sewage and mosquito control.
They alleged that despite the rise in dengue and other illnesses, the response from the administration has largely been limited to advisories.Students have also raised concerns over the quality of drinking water. They claimed that some hostel facilities have a strong chlorinated taste and alleged that RO filtration is inadequate in parts of the campus.
Students also reported concerns over sanitation practices during maintenance of water filters.According to the students, they pay around ₹28,000 annually towards maintenance and ₹42,000 for mess fees. However, several students said they have had to spend additional money on outside food and drinking water after falling ill.
The students have demanded an independent health and safety audit by external experts, microbiological testing of campus water and food for pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella Typhi, and changes to the medical exemption policy. They have also sought an independent monitoring committee with representation from the Students’ Body Association (SBA).