Is it True That in JNU and DU Girls and Boys Can Share the Same Rooms in a Hostel?

There has been quite a bit of buzz and debate surrounding the co-ed hostel accommodations in universities like Delhi University (DU) and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). Here is a comprehensive breakdown to help students understand the current policies and living conditions.

No, It Is Not the Case in DU and JNU

First and foremost, it is important to clarify that in Delhi University (DU) and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), the practice of co-ed hostel living is not widespread or allowed. This means that students either have single-sex living arrangements or follow specific residential guidelines dictated by the university.

Delhi University: In some DU residential hostels, the dining halls and common facilities are co-located, allowing easy interaction between different wings. However, these separate wings are strictly gender-separated. Boys and girls cannot share the same rooms on a permanent basis in any hostel within DU.

Jawaharlal Nehru University: At JNU, girls are allowed to visit the boys' wing for certain activities, events, or classes, but vice versa is not possible. While there is some level of physical proximity, the main residence buildings are primarily single-gender, and permanent co-ed sharing does not exist.

Co-ed Hostels Do Exist. What is the Big Deal?

The concept of co-ed hostels does exist in certain contexts, but the specifics can vary widely from one institution to another. The debate arises because some students believe dual accommodation facilities are necessary for creating a more inclusive and diverse social environment. While there are concerns around privacy and safety, the reality is often more nuanced than many people perceive.

Universities like DU and JNU, due to their extensive and historically significant status, have more traditional approaches to managing student accommodation. However, with increasing awareness and changing societal norms, there is a push to explore more inclusive residential policies.

There Are Exceptions, Particularly at the Masters Level

It is also crucial to note that policies can relax at the postgraduate level. At the Masters level, academic freedom is often accommodated, even for co-habitation of female and male students. Professors or head of departments may sometimes grant permission as long as certain conditions are met to ensure both privacy and safety.

For instance, while permanent co-education hostel sharing may not be an everyday norm, having a girl visit the boys' wing during an emergency situation or an invited guest might be more acceptable than a blanket ban. This leniency is often justified on the grounds that postgraduates are more mature and responsible.

Let's Debunk Some Myths

Many myths and misunderstandings circulate about the availability of co-ed hostels in DU and JNU. Here are some of the most common ones:

Myth 1: All DU colleges offer co-ed dorms. - While DU and JNU both operate co-educational institutions, only a few colleges within DU have co-educational hostels. Most residential buildings within these universities are single-gender dormitories. Myth 2: Co-ed dorms are a new trend. - While the push for co-education has gained momentum in recent years, university policies have generally been more conservative. The idea of co-ed dorms was not a new trend but rather a gradual process of adaptation. Myth 3: Permanent co-ed sharing is mandated. - There are no universities in India mandating permanent co-ed sharing in hostels. Policies vary widely and are subject to change based on university-specific guidelines and changes in societal norms.

In conclusion, while the debate around co-ed dormitories is ongoing, the current policies in DU and JNU reflect a balance between tradition and modernization. The key is to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all students while adapting to the needs of the changing times.