Clarification on college hostels

Depends upon which State's Shops and Establishments Act you refer to.

For instance, in Karnataka's Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1961, section 3(2)(b) exempts college hostels. Please take note of the section:

Section 3(2)(b)-EXEMPTIONS..."clubs, residential hotels, boarding houses, hostels attached to schools or colleges, and establishments maintained in boarding schools in connection with the boarding and lodging of pupils and resident-masters;"

Thank you Raveena. This question was asked in context of Karnataka Shop's and establishments Act.  I shall read further about this section.

Raveena is perfectly right.