A college watchman in Sangareddy, Telangana, was found asleep with his foot inside a large vessel of cooked rice on Wednesday. The incident, captured in a viral video, occurred in the hostel kitchen of a local polytechnic college, raising immediate concerns over food safety and staff supervision. The video circulated widely on social media, drawing attention from students, parents, and local authorities.
The watchman, identified as Chandrashekar, was reportedly intoxicated during the incident. Students who discovered him were alarmed that food prepared for dozens of hostel residents had been compromised. The video clearly shows the staff member asleep with one foot resting in the rice, prompting swift action from college authorities.
Authorities Remove Watchman After Video Surfaces
Following the release of the viral footage, the District Collector of Sangareddy ordered the immediate removal of the watchman from duty. Officials confirmed that the contaminated rice was discarded and fresh meals were prepared for the students. The college administration stated it is reviewing staff protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
A spokesperson from the college said, “This is a serious lapse in supervision. We have taken immediate steps to ensure student safety and are reviewing our staff management procedures.” Students expressed concern over hygiene standards in the hostel kitchen, noting the potential health risks posed by the watchman’s actions.
Student Reactions and Social Media Response
The viral video generated widespread discussion on social media, with viewers expressing shock and disapproval. Many questioned how a staff member could remain unsupervised while handling food intended for students. Students who recorded the incident said they immediately reported it to hostel authorities after discovering the watchman asleep.
Parents and local residents also reacted strongly, emphasizing the need for better monitoring of support staff in educational institutions. The incident sparked debates on student safety, staff accountability, and food hygiene in college hostels across Telangana.
Health Risks and Food Safety Concerns
Experts highlighted the serious hygiene and health risks posed by the incident. Contamination of cooked food in communal kitchens can lead to foodborne illnesses and compromise student health. A food safety consultant noted, “Any lapse in hygiene in student hostels is unacceptable. Colleges must ensure strict supervision and regular training for all staff handling food.”
Although no health issues have been reported so far, the incident revealed gaps in staff oversight. Authorities emphasized that even temporary or contractual employees need proper supervision, particularly in areas where meals are prepared for large groups.
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College Implements Immediate Oversight Measures
In response to the incident, the college administration announced plans to strengthen staff supervision. Measures under consideration include stricter screening of temporary employees, regular checks for intoxication, and training programs focused on hygiene and professional conduct. The college also plans to introduce periodic inspections in kitchens and other student areas to prevent recurrence.
Officials stated that these steps are part of broader efforts to ensure student welfare and maintain hygiene standards. “We are taking this seriously and will implement all necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” a college representative said.
Telangana Authorities Monitor the Situation
The Telangana government’s prompt response to the viral video demonstrates a commitment to student safety and accountability. The District Collector has instructed officials to closely monitor staff behavior in all college hostels within the district. Authorities also emphasized the importance of transparent reporting mechanisms for students to flag concerns.
The incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for robust staff management in educational institutions. It underscores that even support staff, such as watchmen, play a vital role in ensuring safe and hygienic conditions for students.
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