Hampi Kannada University Grapples with Severe Financial Crisis, Staff Unpaid for Months
Hosapete (Vijayanagara): Hampi Kannada University, the state's sole language research institution, is embroiled in a profound financial crisis that has left approximately 130 outsourced employees without pay for nearly a year. The university has reportedly not received adequate financial assistance from the government for over a year, severely hampering routine administration and salary disbursements.
Mounting Salary Arrears and Operational Hurdles
University authorities have disclosed alarming details regarding the salary delays. Outsourced staff have not been paid for 11 months, temporary employees have gone unpaid for six months, and guest lecturers have faced five months of salary arrears. To clear these outstanding dues, the university urgently requires over Rs 3.1 crore and has made repeated appeals to the government for intervention.
However, the finance department has cited a lack of available funds, exacerbating the situation. The university now pins its hopes on potential relief in the upcoming state budget scheduled for March. Vice-chancellor DV Paramashivamurthy expressed optimism that the issues might be addressed during the governor's meeting with university vice-chancellors in Bengaluru on February 21.
Inadequate Funding and Escalating Operational Costs
Officials revealed a stark contrast in government allocations over time. Previously, the university received Rs 8–9 crore for salaries, but this allocation has plummeted to a mere Rs 3–4 crore, which they deem insufficient. Monthly operational demands are staggering: the university needs Rs 45 lakh solely for temporary staff salaries, with an additional Rs 2–3 crore required for daily operations and project-related expenses.
The financial strain has not only disrupted salary payments but has also severely impacted research activities and exposed a critical faculty shortage. Vice-chancellor Paramashivamurthy highlighted that nearly half of the teaching staff have already retired, and about 80% are set to retire within the next three years. He emphasized the urgent need for permanent faculty appointments, noting that the funding shortfall has compounded the university's challenges.
Historical Financial Neglect and Infrastructure Woes
In earlier years, the university received only a fraction of its sanctioned grants, leaving it unable to settle essential bills such as electricity charges and property taxes. At one point, the power supply was disconnected due to unpaid electricity bills amounting to Rs 98 lakh, underscoring the depth of the financial neglect.
Amid this crisis, the university is preparing to hold its 34th convocation on February 25. There are expectations that the higher education minister and the governor may provide assurances of financial support during the event, offering a glimmer of hope for resolution.
Leadership's Grave Concerns and Call for Action
Responding to the escalating situation, Vice-chancellor Paramashivamurthy reiterated his deep concern over the growing challenges. He stressed that the faculty shortage, coupled with imminent retirements, poses a significant threat to the university's academic mission. The lack of funds has worsened the crisis, making it imperative for the government to step in with sustainable financial solutions and permanent staffing measures to safeguard the future of this vital language research institution.
