Bombay HC Takes Suo Motu Cognisance of Water Shortage at Churchgate Girls Hostel

The Bombay High Court on Monday took suo motu cognisance of news reports highlighting severe water shortage and a lack of basic facilities at Mumbai University’s Madam Cama Girls Hostel in Churchgate.

A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Ravindra Ghuge and Justice Gautam Ankhad initiated the public interest litigation after referring to two newspaper reports describing the living conditions of the residents.

According to the reports, the ongoing water shortage has affected more than 100 students residing at the hostel. Residents were forced to purchase drinking water and fetch water from neighbouring buildings. The crisis also created significant difficulties for students trying to use the washroom facilities.

Addressing the situation, Justice Ghuge noted the gravity of the matter, observing that it directly affects the residents' basic living standards and health.

“It pertains to girl residents of the hostels and the issue is a bit serious. It also pertains to their menstrual hygiene and so many other things,” Justice Ghuge said.

This is not the first time living conditions at the Churchgate facility have come under scrutiny. Last year, students had lodged complaints regarding deteriorating infrastructure, poor lighting, and erratic mess services at the hostel.

To assist the court in addressing the issues, the bench appointed advocate Yugandhara Khanwilkar as amicus curiae. The court requested her to research the situation, gather sufficient information, and draft a formal petition.

The High Court has scheduled the matter for its next hearing on September 1.