A worm discovered in a meal at Savitribai Phule Pune University’s (SPPU) Refectory canteen on July 22 has sparked widespread student outrage. A video of the contaminated food quickly went viral, intensifying criticism of the university’s persistent hygiene and food safety lapses.
The Refectory, situated near the Departments of Sociology, Chemistry, and Physics, is one of the main and most frequented canteens on campus due to its affordable pricing. However, this is not the first time complaints have surfaced. Past incidents have involved cockroaches, glass shards, and even rubber pieces found in student meals.
The discovery led to protests against the canteen contractor and university administration, with students demanding strict pest control measures and accountability for repeated negligence.
Raising the issue formally, Dammratna Gaikwad, Youth City President of RPI (Athawale Group), Pimpri-Chinchwad, submitted a memorandum to Vice-Chancellor Dr. Suresh Gosavi, urging swift and strict action to ensure food safety on campus.
In response, the university administration has assured students of immediate remedial steps, including enhanced sanitation, hostel infrastructure repairs, and increased pesticide use to eliminate pest infestations.
Despite the promises, students remain deeply concerned about the health hazards posed by unhygienic food, especially during exam time when many rely on the canteen for daily meals.
“This is about our health and dignity. How long will they keep turning a blind eye?” asked one student, echoing a broader sentiment of frustration over the administration’s inaction.