IIT Kharagpur Clarifies: No Segregation of Seats in Dining Hall, Issues Official Advisory

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur has issued an official clarification and advisory after an email circulated among residents of the B R Ambedkar Hall of Residence sparked debate over dining hall seating arrangements. The earlier email, sent to around 1,300 hostel residents, had mandated compliance with “vegetarian and non-vegetarian seating rules.”

In its advisory dated September 7, the institute made it clear that no such directive had been officially issued, and there will be no segregation of seats in the dining hall. The clarification underscores IIT Kharagpur’s commitment to equality and inclusivity in campus life.

The Controversial Email

The controversy began when Nilanjan Paul, General Secretary (Mess) of B R Ambedkar Hall, circulated an email to residents last month. The message highlighted increasing complaints about boarders “occupying vegetarian tables while eating eggs, fish, or chicken.”

The email read:

“In recent days, complaints have been increasing about boarders occupying vegetarian tables while eating eggs, fish, or chicken. This goes against the mess seating rules and shows a lack of respect for others’ food preferences, affecting a harmonious environment. All boarders are instructed to strictly follow the seating rules.”

This communication suggested the existence of formalised seating segregation based on dietary preferences—something that many former students and faculty described as a departure from the institute’s long-standing culture where students of diverse food habits dined together without such divisions.

Institute’s Official Stand

In response, IIT Kharagpur’s Office of the Chairman issued an advisory making the institute’s position unambiguous. The advisory stated:

• Segregation of food should exist only at the levels of preparation and distribution (for vegetarian, non-vegetarian, Jain, and other categories).
• No segregation of seating arrangements is permitted in dining halls.
• All residents are encouraged to eat together, reinforcing the value of equality.

The advisory sought to dispel confusion and ensure that all students understood the institutional stance against discriminatory practices in communal spaces like the mess.

Director’s Clarification

Speaking to The Indian Express, IIT Kharagpur Director Dr. Suman Chakraborty reiterated the institute’s policy. He stated:

“There has been no such directive issued by the institute ever. Such segregation of sitting arrangements has never been institutionalised, and it goes against the institutional policy of equality. If in some pockets, some persons have made some localised arrangements, it is by their own preference, and the institute has not provided any directive for that. Rather, we clarify that there is no such directive and people are encouraged to have their food together at the same place.”

His statement made it clear that while individuals may have attempted to create informal arrangements, these were never sanctioned or recognised by the institute.

Historical Context: A Departure from Tradition

Former students and faculty members were quick to note that such attempts at dining segregation marked a significant shift from IIT Kharagpur’s historical practices. Traditionally, students from different backgrounds and dietary preferences—vegetarians, non-vegetarians, and others—shared tables freely, reflecting the diverse yet inclusive culture of the campus.

For many alumni, the advisory reaffirmed the institute’s legacy of unity and equal treatment of all students, regardless of food choices or cultural practices.

Addressing Student Concerns

The advisory also acknowledged that while complaints had arisen regarding food preferences, the solution lies not in dividing students but in managing food preparation and distribution efficiently.

By segregating vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and other categories at the kitchen and serving levels, IIT Kharagpur ensures that all dietary preferences are respected without imposing artificial divisions in communal spaces like dining halls.

This approach maintains harmony among students while upholding the institute’s principles of inclusivity.

Broader Significance

The incident and its resolution highlight a broader conversation about campus culture, equality, and respect for diversity in India’s premier educational institutions. Dining halls in residential campuses are more than just spaces for meals—they are also places where students build friendships, exchange ideas, and nurture values of coexistence.

By clarifying its position, IIT Kharagpur has reinforced its role as a space that fosters mutual respect, collaboration, and inclusivity—values that are integral to higher education.

Key Takeaways from the Advisory

1. No Seating Segregation – All students can sit together in the dining halls irrespective of dietary preferences.
2. Food Segregation Limited to Preparation – Vegetarian, non-vegetarian, Jain, and other dietary categories will only be separated at cooking and distribution stages.
3. Equality Emphasised – The institute reiterated that equality is a cornerstone of its policies and practices.
4. Local Arrangements Not Recognised – Any informal attempts to segregate students are not sanctioned by the administration.

Looking Ahead

With the advisory now in place, IIT Kharagpur has set a clear expectation for its hostels and residents. The focus remains on building a harmonious environment where dietary preferences are respected without creating divides.

The institute has also reminded all halls of residence to adhere to the clarified policy, ensuring that future controversies are avoided.

For the students of B R Ambedkar Hall and beyond, this episode serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding inclusive traditions and resisting attempts to impose artificial separations in a community built on diversity.

Conclusion

The IIT Kharagpur dining hall controversy underscores how issues of food and space can reflect deeper questions of equality and inclusivity in campus life. By issuing a clear advisory, the institute has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a culture where students dine, learn, and grow together—without barriers.