Guwahati: AASU submits memo to GU over hostel closures, infrastructure woes

STAFF REPORTER

Guwahati: The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Gauhati University Unit, submitted a formal memorandum to the university authorities on June 20, voicing serious concerns regarding the proposed closure of hostels during the upcoming July summer vacation, along with longstanding issues related to inadequate hostel infrastructure and lack of support for economically disadvantaged students.

In their memorandum, the student body urged the university not to shut down hostels or disconnect electricity and water supply during the vacation period. Highlighting the academic calendar, AASU pointed out that many students would be staying on campus in July to attend internships and prepare for the National Eligibility Test (NET) and other competitive examinations.

“Closing the hostels during July will cause serious inconvenience to students who need to stay back for academic and career-related reasons,” the memorandum stated. AASU appealed to the university administration to keep hostels functional throughout the month to avoid forcing students into costly alternative housing arrangements.

The memorandum further outlined the deteriorating conditions of hostel infrastructure. According to AASU, many hostels are suffering from a shortage of basic amenities such as beds, tables, chairs, fans, and proper lighting. Students have reportedly been facing significant discomfort in their daily lives due to these shortcomings.

“We request the administration to resolve these issues before regular classes resume in August,” the student leaders added. Another major concern raised by AASU was the urgent need to accommodate newly admitted undergraduate students, particularly female students from economically weaker sections. The memorandum emphasised that many families cannot afford the high expenses of rented rooms or paying guest (PG) accommodations in Guwahati.

“There are students whose families cannot afford to spend thousands of rupees monthly on private housing. The university should take this matter seriously and ensure that hostel facilities are made available for such students,” AASU stated.

The memorandum was jointly signed by Jugal Jyoti Basishtha Goswami, president, and Pratiksha Saikia, working president of the AASU Gauhati University Unit. The student union has urged the university to respond with empathy and take prompt action to ensure the well-being and academic continuity of the student community.

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