By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The Bihar Women’s Commission has adopted a tough stance on all girls’ hostels operating in Patna. The Commission has written to the District Magistrate, directing him to submit a detailed list of every girls’ hostel functioning in the district, including both registered and unregistered facilities.
The Commission stated that such information is crucial from the standpoint of students’ safety, basic amenities and effective monitoring. It has made it clear that the complete list must be submitted to the Commission Chairperson within one week of receipt of the letter.
Higher risk in unregistered hostels
In the letter, Commission Chairperson Apsara has laid special emphasis on identifying how many girls’ hostels are operating in Patna district and how many of them are officially registered. The Commission has also sought details of the safety measures and basic facilities being provided to students in accordance with prescribed norms.
“Unregistered hostels pose serious risks to the safety of girl students. In many cases, the administration is not even aware of their existence,” the letter noted.
The Commission further stated that maintaining an updated record of hostels at its office is essential to ensure swift action in the event of complaints or emergencies. Chairperson Apsara pointed out that many students live away from their families for educational purposes, making their protection a shared responsibility of both the administration and society.
She stressed that regular verification and monitoring of hostels are necessary to safeguard students’ security, living conditions and mental well-being.
The move follows several serious incidents involving hostel residents in recent times. Among them is the recent case of the suspicious death of a student preparing for the NEET examination in Patna, which had shaken both the administration and the public. Following the incident, serious questions were raised over the safety of girls living in hostels, with family members and local residents levelling grave allegations against the hostel management.
Proper records essential
According to Chairperson Apsara, maintaining accurate records and a robust monitoring mechanism for girls’ hostels could help prevent many such incidents and also assist in determining the actual cause when untoward events occur.
The Commission has also asked the District Magistrate to provide information on whether hostels are equipped with CCTV cameras, wardens, security guards, fire safety arrangements and emergency contact systems. These facilities, it said, are vital for ensuring the safety of students.
The Commission has indicated that once the list is received, inspections may be conducted where necessary, and strict action will be taken against hostels found violating norms.
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