A controversial directive from Shivamogga Deputy Commissioner Gurudatt Hegde has triggered backlash after he ordered universities, colleges, and government departments to vacate student hostels to accommodate attendees of a government employee sports and cultural meet. The three-day program begins on the evening of May 18 and will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar is expected to lead the flag-hoisting ceremony.

Organized by the Karnataka State Government Employees Union, the large-scale event is set to draw more than 15,000 government staffers from across the state. In response to a request from the union’s district president seeking lodging arrangements, the DC instructed hostel-managing institutions to declare a holiday from May 18 and ensure space is cleared for visiting participants.

The move has attracted severe criticism, especially from Congress member and activist GT Sathyanarayana. He shared the official letter on social media, fuelling public outrage and questioning the stance of Education Minister and district in-charge Madhu Bangarappa.

Sathyanarayana expressed concern over the timing, noting that more than 2,000 students staying in over 20 hostels run by BCM and SC/ST departments would be affected. He pointed out that students are in the midst of end-semester preparations, with internal exams and practicals scheduled from May 19.

In response to the criticism, DC Hegde clarified that only students without ongoing examinations would be asked to vacate. Those with assessments and from far-off locations will be allowed to remain on campus.

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