Vijayapura
Members of a teachers’ organisation in Vijayapura have made serious allegations against the current president and general secretary, accusing them of misuse of power and financial irregularities. The charges were raised during a press conference held at a private hotel in the city, where the members demanded immediate clarification and accountability.
The issue is linked to the Karnataka State Primary School Teachers’ Association elections for the 2025–30 term, which were originally scheduled for November last year but were postponed for various reasons. After the delay continued beyond the expiry of the term, teachers approached the Dharwad High Court. The court directed the association to conduct elections within one month and submit a compliance report.
Following the court order, the state unit issued an election notification on April 1, 2026. However, members alleged that basic procedures have not been followed. They said that a provisional voters’ list was not released before the nomination process, and no final list has been issued after objections, as required under the rules. Despite April 11 being fixed as the start date for nominations, even an election office has not been set up, they claimed.
The members further pointed out that the association collects ₹200 annually from thousands of teachers across the state, and elections are usually held every five years in a transparent manner. However, they said that no election activity has begun in key areas such as Vijayapura Rural, Babaleshwar, and Tikota, raising serious doubts among teachers.
When contacted, the district president reportedly expressed ignorance about the process, which further increased suspicion among members. They alleged that there is a deliberate attempt to delay elections and continue in power through unfair means. The teachers also accused a few leaders of treating the association as their personal property, ignoring its democratic values and long-standing traditions.
The group has demanded immediate release of the voters’ list, appointment of an election officer, and establishment of a proper election office without delay. They warned that if due process is not followed, they will launch a strong protest movement.
Several teachers, including Ravindra Ugar, H.K. Budihal, and others, were present at the press conference.
