AIDSO, Parents, and Farmers unite against mandatory student transfers, warn of intensified agitation to protect rural education rights
Ramanagara: In a strong show of resistance against the state government’s education policy, a large protest rally was held in Ramanagara, opposing the mandatory transfer of students to KPS Magnet School in Honganur and the ongoing merger of government schools.
The protest, organized jointly by All India Democratic Students Organisation (AIDSO), Save Public Education Jana Samiti, and SDMCCF, witnessed participation from parents of five villages, SDMC members, BKC workers, and farmers’ union leaders. The rally began at Ambedkar Bhavan and culminated at the DDPI office, where protesters voiced their anger against what they termed an “anti-people and undemocratic move.”
In the absence of the DDPI officer, a delegation submitted a memorandum to EO Bhagyalakshmi, who assured the protesters that the issue would be escalated to higher authorities.
Strong Opposition to School Merger Policy
Addressing the gathering, AIDSO State Vice President Apoorva demanded immediate withdrawal of the March 7 circular issued by the Channapatna BEO office, which mandates the merger of several rural schools.
“Santemogenahalli, Ammallidoddi, Kannidodi, Hodikehosahalli, and Sunnaghatta schools are not just buildings, they are lifelines for children of farmers and daily wage workers. Closing them will push thousands of children into darkness,” she said.
She further alleged that the KPS Magnet scheme is a step towards privatization of public education, undermining access for the rural poor.
Concerns Over Impact on Children and Society
SDMCCF State President Umesh stressed the importance of neighborhood schools in shaping socially aware citizens.
“Closing local schools will disrupt children’s learning environment and disconnect them from community values and national awareness,” he said.
Livelihood Crisis for Mid-Day Meal Workers
Highlighting another dimension of the crisis, Hot Meal Workers’ Association District Vice President Nirmala said that school closures are already affecting livelihoods.
“Two workers from Ammallidoddi and Santemogenahalli schools have lost their jobs. This policy is destroying both education and employment,” she stated.
Key Demands Raised by Protesters
- Immediate cancellation of the March 7 school merger circular
- Withdrawal of the KPS Magnet scheme and halt to education privatization
- Reappointment of hot meal workers affected by school closures
- Protection of right to education for rural and underprivileged children
Warning of Intensified Agitation
Protesters, including villagers, education activists, and farmer leaders, warned that the agitation would continue until the government rolls back the merger decision and safeguards public education.
