Students of Mysuru’s prestigious Maharaja’s College staged a protest on campus, demanding improved facilities and better infrastructure. The demonstration, which drew participation from hundreds of students across various departments, highlighted issues ranging from inadequate classroom space and laboratory equipment to poor sanitation and lack of hostel accommodations. Organizers emphasized that these challenges hinder academic performance and overall campus experience. College authorities engaged in discussions with student representatives, promising to address some concerns, but protesters insisted that immediate action is necessary to ensure a conducive learning environment.
Students also highlighted the pressing need for enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity across the campus. Many reported slow or intermittent internet access, which hampers research, online learning, and access to digital resources. They urged the administration to invest in high-speed, campus-wide connectivity to support academic and extracurricular activities, particularly as online education and digital collaboration become increasingly integral to higher education.
Protesters emphasized the importance of waste management systems on campus. Overflowing bins, lack of segregation, and insufficient composting options were cited as environmental and health concerns. Students suggested implementing eco-friendly waste disposal methods, promoting recycling, and educating the campus community on sustainable practices to maintain a cleaner, greener environment.
The demand for enhanced cultural and artistic spaces was also voiced. Students expressed the need for dedicated auditoriums, performance halls, and art studios to support creative pursuits. Such facilities would allow students to showcase talent, host events, and cultivate a well-rounded educational experience alongside academic achievements.
Lastly, students stressed the importance of consistent administrative follow-up on infrastructure promises. Previous commitments had seen slow progress, creating frustration and distrust. Protesters requested a formal mechanism to track project updates, deadlines, and accountability, ensuring that proposed improvements are executed efficiently and transparently for the benefit of the entire student body.
According to students, several laboratories and libraries are outdated, limiting access to modern learning resources and research opportunities. Laboratories often lack essential instruments, while libraries face shortages of contemporary textbooks and reference materials. Students claim that these deficiencies place them at a disadvantage compared to peers in other institutions, affecting both competitive exam preparation and academic growth. Protesters stressed that enhanced facilities are critical for nurturing talent, encouraging research, and maintaining the college’s reputation as a premier educational institution in Karnataka.
The protest also underscored concerns regarding campus hygiene and maintenance. Students reported unclean restrooms, insufficient drinking water facilities, and poorly maintained common areas. Dormitory conditions were described as overcrowded and inadequately ventilated, raising health and safety concerns. Demonstrators argued that such basic infrastructural inadequacies not only affect daily life but also demotivate students, highlighting the urgent need for modernization and proper upkeep.
Administrative Response to Student Concerns
College administration acknowledged the students’ grievances and committed to reviewing infrastructural deficiencies. Officials indicated that budget allocations for maintenance and modernization projects are under consideration, with a focus on laboratories, libraries, and hostels. Dialogue between student representatives and administrators is expected to continue to prioritize critical requirements.
Authorities also noted that some improvements have already been initiated, including refurbishment of select classrooms and enhancement of digital learning resources. However, students insist that the pace of development remains slow and have called for accelerated implementation to meet current academic and residential needs.
Broader Implications for Student Welfare
The protest at Maharaja’s College reflects a growing trend among students across Karnataka advocating for better educational facilities and campus welfare. Experts suggest that proactive infrastructure development and maintenance are vital for attracting and retaining talented students. Ensuring safe, well-equipped, and hygienic learning environments contributes to overall academic performance, mental well-being, and institutional prestige.
University authorities have been urged to conduct comprehensive audits of campus facilities and allocate resources effectively. By addressing student concerns promptly, the college can reinforce trust, encourage active engagement, and foster a culture of collaborative development that prioritizes both academic excellence and student welfare.
The protest at Maharaja’s College has drawn attention not only from the administration but also from local media and the Mysuru public, highlighting the urgency of infrastructural improvements. Students emphasized that academic excellence cannot be achieved without basic facilities, arguing that modern classrooms, upgraded laboratories, and adequate library resources are fundamental rights for learners. The protest has sparked conversations about the responsibility of state-funded institutions to provide equitable access to quality education while maintaining the campus environment for overall student welfare.
Students highlighted that the lack of digital learning resources has become a significant hurdle, particularly for research and competitive exam preparation. With many colleges across India adopting digital libraries and e-learning platforms, Maharaja’s College students feel disadvantaged due to limited access to online journals, databases, and study materials. Demonstrators urged the administration to invest in high-speed internet, digital subscriptions, and computer labs to bridge this technological gap and ensure that students remain competitive at regional and national levels.
Hostel facilities were another major concern raised during the protest. Many students reported overcrowded rooms, insufficient bedding, and inadequate sanitation facilities, which are affecting daily life and health. Students residing on campus emphasized the need for separate accommodations for male and female students, proper ventilation, and access to clean water and functional bathrooms. They argued that improved hostel infrastructure is essential for creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to academic success.
Protesters also raised concerns about canteen services and nutritional options available on campus. Limited meal choices, high prices, and unhygienic conditions in food preparation areas were cited as issues affecting students’ health and well-being. They demanded better-quality food services and stricter monitoring of hygiene standards to ensure that students have access to balanced and safe meals during their stay on campus.
Academic spaces were another area of concern. Students noted that classrooms are often overcrowded, and seating arrangements are inadequate for large lecture groups. Ventilation issues and lack of proper lighting further affect the learning environment. Demonstrators stressed that investing in spacious, well-equipped classrooms with ergonomic furniture and modern teaching aids is crucial for effective teaching and learning experiences.
Library facilities were highlighted as insufficient for the student population. Students mentioned that reference books are limited, seating space is inadequate, and access to journals and research publications is restricted. They requested extended library hours, digitized catalogues, and additional study zones to accommodate a growing number of students and facilitate focused learning and research.
Laboratories were a critical point of the protest, especially for science and technology students. Outdated equipment, lack of consumables, and insufficient safety measures were cited as major obstacles to practical learning. Students emphasized the need for modern lab infrastructure, regular maintenance, and training for technical staff to ensure that hands-on experiments are conducted safely and effectively, fostering academic growth and innovation.
Students also expressed concern over campus cleanliness and maintenance. Dusty corridors, overflowing garbage bins, and neglected common areas were highlighted as issues that negatively affect the campus atmosphere. Protesters urged the administration to implement regular cleaning schedules, proper waste management systems, and maintenance protocols to ensure a hygienic, welcoming, and safe environment for all students.
Mental health support was another key demand during the protest. Students emphasized the growing need for counseling services, stress management workshops, and awareness programs to address academic and personal pressures. Demonstrators requested trained counselors and dedicated spaces for mental health support to promote emotional well-being and academic productivity among students.
Sports and recreational facilities were raised as a concern by students seeking a balanced campus life. Existing sports grounds are limited, and indoor recreational spaces are insufficient. Students argued that access to well-maintained playgrounds, gymnasiums, and recreational areas is essential for physical fitness, stress relief, and overall well-being. They requested upgrades to existing facilities and the introduction of new spaces to promote extracurricular engagement.
Students also demanded improvements in campus security. Insufficient lighting in pathways, poorly monitored entrances, and limited security personnel were cited as risks to student safety. Protesters requested enhanced surveillance systems, increased security presence, and safety awareness programs to ensure a secure campus environment for all residents and visitors.
Accessibility was another concern highlighted during the protest. Students with disabilities reported difficulties navigating the campus due to inadequate ramps, lifts, and accessible restroom facilities. Protesters urged the administration to implement inclusive infrastructure measures, ensuring that all students can access academic and residential spaces comfortably and safely.
Students stressed the importance of transparency in administrative decisions affecting facilities. They requested regular updates on ongoing maintenance, budget allocations, and project timelines. Clear communication and participatory planning were emphasized as methods to build trust between students and administration while ensuring accountability in implementing infrastructure improvements.
Transportation facilities were also discussed during the protest. Limited parking, irregular campus shuttle services, and poor connectivity with public transport were cited as challenges. Students requested enhanced shuttle services, better parking arrangements, and improved coordination with city transport to ease daily commuting and reduce time lost due to inadequate transportation options.
The protest highlighted the importance of alumni engagement in addressing infrastructure challenges. Students suggested that alumni networks could be leveraged to fund modernization projects, mentor current students, and provide resources for academic and extracurricular development. Collaboration with past graduates could create a sustainable model for campus improvement.
Finally, students underscored the need for long-term planning for campus development. They requested a comprehensive infrastructure plan covering classrooms, laboratories, hostels, recreational spaces, and digital resources, with a clear timeline for implementation. Demonstrators argued that structured planning, combined with adequate funding and student involvement, is essential to ensure that Maharaja’s College continues to provide high-quality education and a supportive campus environment.
Follow: Karnataka Government
Also read: Home | Channel 6 Network – Latest News, Breaking Updates: Politics, Business, Tech & More
