Hyderabad: The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has raised concerns about irregularities in the operation of the canteen at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad (JNTUH). The group submitted a formal complaint to the university’s Registrar, asking for immediate action.
Since 2020, the university’s canteen has been run by Sri Sai Caterers. However, the ABVP claims that the canteen has been operating without a proper tender process, violating rules and causing financial losses of nearly one crore rupees. Despite the expiration of the previous tender, no new tender process has been initiated. Instead, unauthorised extensions were reportedly granted to the caterer.
The ABVP also highlighted other violations. The canteen allegedly allowed the establishment of unauthorised stalls, such as a pani puri counter, a Coca-Cola station, and a Frankie stall. These additions were made without the university’s approval, breaking the terms of the original agreement.
In June 2024, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) conducted a food inspection and found serious issues. The inspection revealed unhygienic conditions and the use of expired ingredients in food preparation. Despite these findings, no action has been taken against the caterer, according to the ABVP.
The organisation has demanded urgent measures to recover the university’s financial losses and strict legal action against Sri Sai Caterers. They also called for accountability from all individuals involved in the alleged scam.
Prashanth, the ABVP State Technical Cell convener, expressed frustration over the situation. He stated, “While deserving and underprivileged students are denied financial support and fee waivers, contractors who break rules and serve sub-standard food continue to operate without valid tenders. Strict action must be taken against all those involved.”
The ABVP further claimed that the canteen issue is just one example of broader irregularities at JNTUH. They vowed to expose all such problems and fight for transparency and justice within the university.
