HANAMKONDA: For days, rodents roamed freely inside the Sammakka Women’s Hostel at Kakatiya University, students allege. Complaints went unaddressed until, on Thursday midnight, eleven students woke up with bite injuries. The incident, which remained under wraps for nearly a week, came to light on Tuesday after images surfaced on social media, raising concerns over sanitation and administrative response.
The injured students were taken for treatment. Photographs of the injuries circulating online have triggered wider concern about safety and living conditions in the hostel. During a visit by TNIE, students pointed to overcrowding and unhygienic surroundings. More than 200 students are reportedly accommodated in just 12 rooms. Students said rodent infestation has become a persistent problem, leaving them unable to stay peacefully.
A postgraduate student, requesting anonymity, said repeated complaints had been made to authorities, but no preventive measures were taken. “Rodents have been moving freely for days. Even after the incident, the University Health Centre had no medicines, and we were asked to go to a private hospital. We need basic facilities,” she said.
Another student alleged that garbage accumulation and poor maintenance had worsened the situation. She said that after the incident, hostel director Sumalatha visited the premises but advised students to use rat glue pads instead of taking broader corrective measures. “We were surprised. When we raise issues, we are warned about upcoming semester exams,” she alleged.
Students have demanded immediate steps to improve sanitation and safety. Sumalatha, director of KU girls’ hostels, was not available for comment.