School Development and Monitoring Committee halts construction works

Mysuru: Senior officials have inspected the 125-year-old Government High School at Vontikoppal (V.V. Mohalla), opposite Sri Lakshmivenkataramanaswamy Temple, amid growing concerns over the institution’s future following development works undertaken by the South Western Railway (SWR).

Tahsildar Mahesh Kumar visited the school and conducted a spot inspection yesterday after it came to light that the Mysuru Division of South Western Railway is constructing a multi-storeyed residential complex, an indoor stadium and an auditorium adjacent to the school.

Using the State Government’s ‘Dishank’ land survey application, Mahesh Kumar verified that the school premises falling under Survey No. 208 of Maragowdanahalli and that 33 guntas of land are recorded as Government property.

He said the relevant revenue records would be examined in detail. As of now, the construction works have been stopped by the School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC).

The inspection follows a series of reports published by Star of Mysore and its sister publication Mysuru Mithra, besides representations submitted by the SDMC.

Citing the Karnataka Government Educational Institutions Land Protection and Regulation Act, 2026, the SDMC has sought to prevent any encroachment on the school premises and protect the institution. Teachers, non-teaching staff and parents have also joined the campaign to safeguard the school.

Established 125 years ago, the Vontikoppal Government High School has educated thousands of students, including former Chief Ministers and several distinguished personalities.

Residents say the institution is not only an important centre of learning but also a part of Mysuru’s educational and cultural heritage.

Residents have urged the Department of School Education, South Western Railway authorities and elected representatives to intervene and ensure the protection and continued existence of the historic institution.