Chennai: Students staying at the M C Raja Social Justice Hostel at Saidapet flagged poor food quality, inadequate amenities and safety concerns during chief minister C Joseph Vijay’s surprise inspection of the facility on Friday.Students complained that meals served at the hostel often contained worms and bugs. “The quality of food improved briefly after we protested last year, but it deteriorated again within days,” a student was heard telling the chief minister.Students also complained about inadequate water supply, unclean bathrooms, staff shortages, poor hygiene in the kitchen, and insufficient CCTV surveillance. They said that kitchen workers did not use gloves or caps while preparing food and that only a fraction of the mandated 64 surveillance cameras had been installed.Several students preparing for TNPSC and UPSC examinations said the hostel gates were shut by 9.30pm, forcing those returning late from work or coaching classes to sleep outside, including in nearby parks. They alleged that “rowdies” had entered the hostel premises and accused some wardens and watchmen of subjecting the students to verbal abuse. “We want improved amenities, sports facilities, and overall maintenance of the hostel,” said a student. Vijay assured the students that their grievances would be addressed and directed officials present to take immediate corrective measures.The 10-storey hostel at Saidapet was built by the social justice department (formerly adi dravidar and tribal welfare department) at a cost of ₹44.50 crore by the previous DMK govt.Social justice minister Vanni Arasu, who met journalist after CM’s inspection, said they received information about the inspection only 10 minutes before Vijay was set to leave. “Students told the chief minister their requirements, and he has instructed the secretaries to fix them immediately,” he said.