Exploding ACs, collapsing ceilings: Jindal Global University shuts down for a week

OP Jindal Global University (JGU), a QS ranked University, has suspended all classes for a week from August 18 to 25, citing air-conditioning (AC) issues in the residential hostels..Multiple videos have surfaced online showing faulty plumbing, an AC unit reportedly having exploded and a part of the ceiling component collapsing upon empty benches in the Global Library reading room..In an email sent to students on August 17, Registrar Dabiru Sridhar Patnaik announced the suspension of classes until August 25, stating,"This is an unusual and unprecedented situation for us as a University." The University emphasised that the decision was made after consultations and that all campus facilities would remain open during the pause."This decision was taken after comprehensive consultations with key stakeholders of the University. The Vice Chancellor, Registrar, and senior leadership team held detailed discussions with the Presidents of the Student Councils of all Schools of JGU, who unanimously agreed that this was the most appropriate step under the present circumstances. The Vice Chancellor also consulted the Deans of all Schools/ Institute, and they too extended their full support to this decision.".Students were given the option to stay in the campus. The email reads that all facilities including 150 classrooms in the Academic Block will be available to students and that faculty members have been informed to adjust their course plans..Undergraduate law, and postgraduate law students pay fees amounting to ₹3.35 lakh per year for accommodation and allied services..Students have previously raised concern about hostel conditions. Speaking with Bar & Bench, a student said, "Last year in August, there was a fungus outbreak in our room when we had left the room for the weekend. This happened because we didn't keep the AC on.".As per a report, the administration was aware of the situation but did not take action until videos and photos began circulating on social media. These infrastructure woes have emerged just two weeks into the 2025-26 academic year, following a three-month long break.