Udupi district is widely known for its strong education system and consistent performance in SSLC and PUC examinations, supported by a robust learning environment, parental involvement, and dedicated teachers. However, the latest decision of the education department has triggered anger among parents and residents.

The school currently has more than 175 students. Until now, eight teachers were managing classes and academic activities. The sudden transfer of six of them has sparked strong resentment among parents, former students, and local residents, who say the move has disrupted the academic atmosphere and the children's future.

In response, parents, alumni, and villagers staged a protest demanding immediate cancellation of the transfer orders. They alleged that the sudden transfers may have been influenced by pressure from nearby private schools, which reportedly view the growing strength and popularity of the government Kannada-medium school as a threat.

Kumragodu Government Higher Primary School, which recently celebrated its centenary year, is well-equipped and has been witnessing a steady rise in admissions. Locals fear that the government’s sudden decision could weaken this progress and adversely affect Kannada-medium education in the region.

Many have questioned the timing of the decision, pointing out that it was taken in November, a month celebrated as Kannada Rajyotsava, calling it an injustice to both Kannada and Kannada-medium education. Residents have termed the move a betrayal of Udupi, often referred to as the “Kashi of education.”

The local community is now demanding immediate withdrawal of the transfer orders to ensure that students' academic progress is not compromised.

Sujatha, an alumnus of the school, said the institution has just completed 100 years and that the relationship between parents, teachers, and students has always been strong. “We were suddenly informed that five teachers have been transferred when only three months of the academic year remain. These teachers handle classes from grade 1 to grade 5, and for small children, their bond with teachers is like that between a mother and child. Such sudden transfers will disturb students emotionally and academically. New teachers will need time to settle in. We request authorities to postpone the transfers by three months. If transfers are required, they should be done at the beginning of the academic year.”

Farida Bhanu said Kumragodu Government School is the only government school in the Brahmavar zone and caters to children from different communities. “Many families cannot afford private or English-medium schools. If such sudden transfers continue, admissions next year will drop. Transferring five or six teachers in a single day without considering students’ futures is unfair. The government encourages students to study in government schools for better opportunities, including jobs, but with such decisions, government schools will not survive,” she said.