Students allege insects found in food at Dhaka International University's old campus canteen

Students have alleged that insects were found in food at the canteen of Dhaka International University's (DIU) old campus. The allegation has raised fresh questions about the quality and cleanliness of the canteen's food and the health risks for students.

The incident of insects being found in the canteen food at the university's old campus came to light on Sunday (25 October). Students had previously complained about the quality and environment of the food at the DIU old campus canteen as well.

Earlier, on 20 May, during a surprise raid by the proctorial team, students had expressed dissatisfaction over mismanagement at the canteen, its unhygienic environment and the quality of the food.

After hearing the students' complaints that day, the university's newly appointed proctor, Professor Dr Md Abul Kalam Azad, said there were instructions from the board of trustees regarding the cafeteria. He also assured students that appropriate measures would be taken within 10 working days after the campus reopened following the Eid-ul-Azha holiday.

But with an allegation of insects in food surfacing again months later, students are questioning the effectiveness of the administration's steps. They allege that although the proctorial team raids the canteen from time to time, there is no permanent solution, and they keep facing the same suffering.

One student said: 'We see the proctorial team raiding the canteen at different times. But the reality is, there is no proper solution to it. From time to time, one student or another finds insects in the food.'

Students allege that questions always remain about the proctorial team's raids, and they do not think the raids are bringing any benefit.

According to the students, running temporary raids alone will not solve the problem; the root cause must be identified and effective measures taken. The allegation of insects in food has also raised questions about how food is prepared and stored and about regular monitoring.

The question has also come to the fore of how far the assurance of bringing change within 10 working days has been implemented. Students want to know what steps the administration will take after the new allegation.

Students expect that, instead of limiting itself to raids and assurances, the university administration will take effective and visible steps to remove the canteen's mismanagement, so that safe and hygienic food is ensured for students at the campus canteen.