Mangaluru, Karnataka: An unannounced inspection by the Karnataka Lokayukta at the Dakshina Kannada district Sports Boys and Girls Hostel in Mannagudda has exposed severe irregularities in food quality, infrastructure and utilisation of government funds. The findings have raised serious concerns over the welfare of young athletes residing at the facility.
Inspection reveals unhygienic conditions
The inspection, led by DySP Dr Gana P Kumar with Inspectors Bharathi J and Ravi Pawar, found worm-infested rice, substandard cooking oil and unhygienic conditions in the kitchen. The hostel lacked a proper stock register, raising doubts about the transparency of food supply and expenditure.
At the time of the inspection, 33 students were staying in the hostel. Officials noted that the meals served were neither nutritious nor adequate for athletes undergoing rigorous training.
Poor facilities and overcrowded rooms
The inspection team observed that accommodation was inadequate, with five students sharing a single room. The dining area was so limited that boys and girls had to eat together in one corner of the hall, indicating poor planning and lack of basic amenities.
Parents were reportedly forced to bear travel expenses for sporting events despite government allocations for the same. Additionally, sports equipment was not supplied for nearly half the year, compelling parents to purchase them at their own cost.
Misuse of funds and substandard supplies
Investigators found that shoes distributed under government grants were of poor quality, wearing out within weeks of use. Further, there were irregularities in food supply contracts, stock verification and tender renewal, suggesting possible misuse of allocated funds.
The hostel lacked essential facilities such as telephones, functional computers and academic support for students, who often miss classes due to training and competitions. Records showed no arrangements for counselling or regular health check-ups, both crucial for young sportspersons.
Administrative lapses
Despite being located just 100 metres from Mangala Stadium, the offices of the Assistant Director and Deputy Director of Youth Empowerment and Sports had never conducted an inspection. This neglect has been flagged by the Lokayukta as a serious administrative failure.
Lokayukta SP (in-charge) Kumarachandra stated that a detailed report would be submitted soon for appropriate action against those responsible.
Community concern and next steps
The revelations have sparked concern among parents and sports enthusiasts, who fear that the poor living conditions and lack of proper nutrition could affect the athletes’ performance and well-being. Authorities are expected to initiate disciplinary action and corrective measures to restore confidence in the institution.
Conclusion
The inspection has highlighted the urgent need for accountability, better supervision and stricter compliance with standards in hostels catering to young athletes. The Lokayukta’s report is expected to recommend strong action to ensure welfare funds are utilised effectively and such irregularities do not recur.