KOZHIKODE: Stray dogs have been haunting students of Calicut University. In the latest, Ayisha Helna, a third-year health science student, got injured in an attack by stray dogs at the ladies' hostel. The girl was studying inside the hostel compound as their final examinations were going on. Her leg got injured in the attack.
She was taken to the Kozhikode Beach Hospital following the incident. Students say many strays roam on the university campus all the time, attacking passersby. “Similar attacks happened in the same hostel compound a few months back. After that, security guards were posted to keep the dogs away. Eventually, the seriousness of the issue was completely lost, causing similar instances again,” said Ashwini K. P., a journalism student.
Students raged against the apathy of officials saying the University authorities were irresponsible in handling the menace and ensuring the safety of the students. “We are fed up. We can’t even walk through the hostel compound," says Sumi T.P., MA English student.
"Everyone blames us, asking 'why can't you take a stone or stick with you instead of running away from the dog?' Our question is why you can’t keep these dangerous animals away from the hostel compound?" The students demand a permanent solution rather than temporary adjustments.
The security officer on duty inside the hostel said they were helpless as it was the panchayat which should take action. A proper waste management system is also necessary to keep the stray dogs out, students say.
