Minister orders immediate relocation of school operating from godown

In a swift response to mounting concerns, Karnataka's Excise Minister K.M. Shivalinge Gowda has demanded immediate action to relocate students from a government residential school currently operating from a rented godown in Hassan district. The Morarji Desai Residential School at Shantigrama has been functioning without basic amenities while construction of its permanent building remains stalled.

Four years in limbo

The school's 172 students have endured conditions that would make any parent shudder. By day, their classroom serves as a learning space. By night, the same room transforms into sleeping quarters and dining hall—all within a converted storage facility. There aren't enough cots for students to sleep properly, and washroom facilities fall desperately short for the number of children.

Official response

Minister Shivalinge Gowda, who also serves as minister-in-charge of Hassan district, took note of media reports and issued clear instructions during Saturday's public service meeting. He directed Dood Peer, Deputy Director of the Social Welfare Department, to identify better accommodation immediately.

"The construction may be completed within the next three to four months. By the next academic year, the students will be shifted to an independent building with all facilities," Mr. Peer told reporters.

Behind the delays

Mr. Peer explained the complicated history: initial land identified for the school faced local opposition, forcing authorities to find alternative sites. The Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Society eventually assigned construction to an agency, but progress has been painstakingly slow. He acknowledged the rented building's inadequacies while noting that no better options were available within Shantigrama hobli at the time.

The Deputy Director committed to identifying suitable temporary housing within one week—a promise that brings hope to students who've waited four years for proper facilities.