NewsFlash Daily™
15 March 
Kasturba Gandhi Balika Hostel in Koratagere taluk remains unused as menstrual taboo and safety concerns affect girls’ education
Tumakuru: In a shocking example of superstition and administrative neglect, a girls’ hostel in Tumakuru district has remained locked for nearly eight years, leaving several students without accommodation and raising concerns about the impact on girls’ education.
The hostel, located in Akkirampura village of Koratagere taluk, was built under the Department of Education, Karnataka, as a Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya residential facility for girls from rural and economically weaker backgrounds. However, despite being completed years ago, the building has never been fully operational.
Superstition Linked to Menstrual Taboos
According to locals, the hostel building is situated next to the Yelu Mandemma Temple, and rumours have spread that the presence of girls during their menstrual cycle could bring misfortune to the temple area.
Even in the 21st century, such beliefs continue to influence decisions in the village. Residents claim that due to this fear, families are reluctant to allow their daughters to stay in the hostel.
Some villagers told the media that girls initially stayed in the hostel but later vacated it due to social pressure and superstition surrounding menstruation.
Infrastructure Problems Add to the Crisis
Apart from superstition, poor infrastructure and safety concerns have also contributed to the hostel remaining unused.
The hostel reportedly lacks a proper compound wall, making the premises vulnerable to intrusions. Locals say incidents involving miscreants in the area have further discouraged students and parents from using the facility.
Impact on Girls’ Education
Because the hostel remains closed, many girls from distant villages are struggling to continue their education, as they do not have safe accommodation near their schools.
Education activists say the situation highlights the combined impact of social stigma and administrative negligence, which continues to affect access to education for rural girls.
Observers have urged authorities in Tumakuru district to intervene immediately, address the infrastructure issues, and launch awareness programs to counter superstition, ensuring that the hostel serves its intended purpose.
