Karnataka headmaster suspended after demanding basic classroom facilities for his students
A government school headmaster in Karnataka has been suspended after he protested seeking a classroom for the 146 students of his school who have no choice but to study outdoors.
Veeranna Madivalar, Headmaster, Government Lower Primary School, in Nidagundi village under Belagavi district, was recently suspended by education authorities following his 15-kilometre silent protest march and hunger strike last Tuesday.
The award-winning educator walked barefoot to the Block Education Office in Raibag taluk, seeking approval for classroom construction.
The lack of a classroom has forced children to study under the scorching sun and monsoon rain. Despite three classrooms being approved nearly three years ago during former education commissioner Anbukumar's tenure, the construction has not commenced.
Speaking to the media, Madivalar said, 'I am a government servant who has always upheld government dignity. I've received district-level best teacher awards and international recognition, spending all prize money on student welfare.'
'No child should endure the harsh sun, rain, or wind while learning. When repeated appeals went unheard, I punished myself through silent protest – not against the government, but for the children,' he added.
The headmaster had ended his demonstration after Raibag Tahsildar Suresh Munje assured him that the matter would be taken up with higher authorities. However, education officials viewed his actions as misconduct, violating service rules.
In the suspension order, Basavarajappa R, Block Education Officer, Raibag, stated: 'As headmaster, you protested against the department, causing embarrassment to both the department and the government. Regardless of demands, you should have followed protocol by submitting respectful written requests instead of publicly challenging the system.'
The BEO cited violations of Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, specifically clause 9(ii), prohibiting government employees from organising strikes. Officials also noted that media coverage and social media posts about the protest brought disrepute to the department.
The suspension has sparked widespread concern among local communities and education activists, who argued that punishing an educator for advocating basic school infrastructure was a grave injustice.
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