Belagavi Regional Commissioner to Investigate Alleged Illegal Appointment at Folklore University
The Regional Commissioner of Belagavi, KM Janaki, is scheduled to visit the Karnataka State Folklore University in Gotagodi on February 19 to conduct a formal inquiry into the alleged illegal appointment of an assistant registrar. This investigation follows a detailed complaint submitted by syndicate members of the university, as confirmed by Shivasomappa Nittur, president of the Karnataka State Folklore Postgraduate and Researchers' Association.
Allegations of Fake Documents and Unqualified Appointment
During a press conference held in Haveri on Tuesday, Nittur made serious allegations against Shahjahan Mudakavi, who secured the position of assistant registrar at the university in 2023. According to Nittur, Mudakavi obtained this appointment by creating fake educational documents. The association has been actively fighting this issue for the past three years, seeking justice and transparency.
Nittur welcomed the recent decision by Governor and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to order a comprehensive investigation into irregularities across various state universities. This broader inquiry will be led by retired Justice Umesh Adiga, highlighting the government's commitment to addressing administrative misconduct in higher education institutions.
Syndicate Complaint Triggers Official Investigation
The formal complaint that sparked this investigation was submitted to the Chief Minister on December 23, 2025, by several syndicate members of the university. The complainants included BM Puttaiah, Gorewale Chandrashekhar, Jyothilakshmi DP, Sahana Pinjar, Ramappa Lamani, and Mohan Kumar. Based on their allegations, the Chief Secretary of the government ordered an immediate inquiry.
As a result, Regional Commissioner KM Janaki has been tasked with conducting the investigation. Notices have already been sent to the complainant syndicate members, requiring their attendance during the inquiry proceedings on February 19.
Educational Qualification Discrepancies Revealed
The complaint contains specific allegations regarding Shahjahan Mudakavi's educational background. According to the documents submitted, Mudakavi's highest educational qualification was only 10+2. Furthermore, the 5-year art master's diploma (visual arts) course he completed was deemed equivalent to pre-university level by Hampi Kannada University, making him ineligible for postgraduate studies or administrative positions requiring higher qualifications.
Despite these clear discrepancies, the complaint alleges that the vice-chancellors of the folklore university deliberately misled the government and proceeded with the appointment of an unqualified individual. This raises serious questions about the university's appointment procedures and administrative oversight.
Association Demands Thorough Investigation and Legal Action
S Nagaraj, vice president of the Karnataka State Folklore Postgraduate and Researchers' Association, expressed concern about potential political interference in the matter. He noted that there were indications of misuse of a powerful government minister's name or intervention in the appointment process.
Nagaraj urged the government to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, ensuring that all facts are uncovered. He emphasized the need for necessary legal action against those found responsible for the alleged irregularities. The association's general secretary, BM Dugani, was also present at the press conference, showing unified support for the demand for accountability.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and integrity in university appointments across Karnataka. The upcoming investigation by Regional Commissioner KM Janaki will be closely watched by educational stakeholders and the public alike, as it may set important precedents for how such allegations are handled in the future.
