SFI launches indefinite protest at Savitribai Phule Pune University over ₹10 hike in food charges

The students also demanded that Savitribai Phule Pune University should provide financial support to the mess to ensure affordable and quality food. File | Photo credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

The Students Federation of India (SFI) has launched an indefinite protest at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) in Pune on Monday, September 21, demanding the withdrawal of the ₹10 hike in food charges in canteens on the university campus.

The protest was launched after a delegation of students met SPPU Vice-Chancellor Suresh Gosavi on Monday (September 21, 2026) and demanded immediate withdrawal of the hike. The students also demanded that the university provide financial support to the mess to ensure affordable and quality food.

According to a statement issued by the SFI Pune City Municipal Committee, the food charges at SPPU campus canteens have been increased by ₹10. The organization said the increase would place an additional financial burden on students, especially those from economically weaker backgrounds, who already cover expenses related to accommodation, study materials, travel and other daily needs.

SFI also cited the drought situation in parts of Maharashtra and argued that the increase would make food less affordable for students coming to the university from across the state.

The organization alleged that Mr. Gosavi did not provide a satisfactory response to the demands of the delegation, after which it decided to launch an indefinite dharna.

The SFI demanded immediate withdrawal of the ₹10 hike and asked for a subsidy of ₹15 per plate from university funds for campus riots. She also called for hygienic, nutritious and quality food to be provided to the students.

The organization said the protest would continue until its demands were resolved.

Published – 22 Sep 2026 05:15 IST