Diwali Treat Turns Sour: Pune University Students Left Disappointed Over Insufficient Snacks
Diwali Treat Turns Sour: Pune University Students Left Disappointed Over Insufficient Snacks
On October 31, 2024, the Student Development Board of Savitribai Phule Pune University organized a Diwali snack distribution for students. Events were held in the girls’ hostel at 10:00 AM, the boys’ hostel – 8 at 10:30 AM, and the boys’ hostel – 9 at 11:00 AM. However, at all locations, the program was concluded earlier than scheduled, and officials had already left. Many students didn’t receive any snacks, leaving them empty-handed.
The university administration provided only a small paper bag with one laddu, 50 grams each of shankarpali, chiwda, and sev, which students felt was insufficient and disappointing. Some students remarked that it seemed as though the university was scraping by with minimal offerings, despite spending lavishly on unnecessary areas, including the distribution of silver coins for staff. Many students have voiced their dissatisfaction, accusing the administration of injustice.
“Giving silver coins to staff while handing students a paltry Diwali snack is disgraceful. The university administration is wasting funds where it’s not needed and yet failed to provide adequately for the students. Many didn’t even receive a snack packet. We condemn this student-unfriendly administration,” stated Rahul Sasane, President of the University Student Action Committee.
