Mysuru: Annoyed that the department was not made aware of several problems faced by staff and students at Maharani’s Arts and Science College, higher education minister G T Devegowda warned Srinivas, the principal, that he would be “transferred to Ballari” if he does not solve the problems.Devegowda paid a visit to the college on Wednesday and interacted with staff and students after receiving numerous complaints from students regarding lack of infrastructure facilities During the interaction with the minister, chemistry department lecturer, D Manjunath, said that there are around 2,500 students but have only three science labs. “I have already submitted an application for more labs and classrooms,” he said. Physics department lecturer, M V Manjunath, also wanted more labs, while mathematics lecturer, B N Dharmendra, claimed there is a severe shortage of classrooms as a result of which classes have to be held in two batches.Students too demanded more classrooms, free bus passes, toilets, a clean environment, and more labs. They also demanded more faculty for their subjects.After hearing the grievances, Devegowda reprimanded the principal for failing to bring these issues to the notice of the department. “Why are students’ problems not being brought to the notice of the department?” Devegowda asked Srinivas. “I will transfer you to Ballari if you do not listen to the problems faced by students and make efforts to resolve them.”Later Devegowda directed MCC commissioner, KH Jagadish, to install an e-toilet on the college premises. It can be used by paying Re 1. “I will also direct MUDA to set up drinking water units and ask KPTCL to install lights and bulbs,” he said. “Guest lecturers who were working previously will be re-hired and all vacancies will be filled. I will also make arrangements for 35 laboratories.”Gowda also directed the principal to hold a meeting with lecturers and students once in 15 days and hear their grievances. He should then bring problems to the notice of the department. “You should speak to lecturers and students. Do not think that you are on the top. Learn to respect lecturers,” he said.He also said that he tour all colleges in North Karnataka from August. “We notice similar problems in colleges in North Karnataka,” he said.MLA B Nagendra, ZP member Beerihundi Basavanna and others were present.

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