On August 6, 2026, students at the Post-Matric Boys’ Hostel in Gadag, run by the Social Welfare Department, reported that over 20 functioning computers and six air conditioners had vanished from the hostel premises. The students claimed that these items, worth several lakh rupees, were removed by officials from the Social Welfare Department. The hostel, situated in Surya Nagar, had a modern computer laboratory set up with government funds to promote digital learning among economically weaker and Dalit students. However, with the computers and air conditioners now missing, the students are struggling to access digital education and complete online assignments. The students have demanded an immediate inquiry into the disappearance of the assets, stating that public money was used to purchase the equipment. Dalit organisations have also condemned the incident, calling for strict action against those responsible and a transparent investigation. The Social Welfare Department has yet to issue an official statement on the allegations. The absence of computers has severely affected the students, who rely on the facility for academic work, online learning, and skill development. Local residents and students are concerned about the alleged misuse of government property, and the state government is being urged to conduct a thorough investigation and return the missing equipment to the hostel.
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📰 Source: Siasat Gulf