Shivamogga: The Deputy Commissioner of Hassan, K.S. Lathakumari, has taken decisive action, suspending two hostel wardens. These officials, who were temporarily assigned to oversee cleaning duties at the renowned Hasanamba Temple, faced suspension due to serious charges of dereliction of duty. The official order for their suspension was issued on Friday, October 10, 2025.
The suspended individuals are Anand, a warden from a pre-metric hostel in Doddabemmathi (Arakalgud taluk), and Ramesh, a warden from a pre-metric hostel in Halebidu (Belur). Both are accused of improperly allowing private citizens access to the temple grounds by providing them with their official identity cards.
The Hassan district administration had mobilized personnel from various departments to manage the extensive arrangements for the Hasanamba Temple festival, which officially commenced on October 9. As part of their duties, these officials were issued specific identity cards. However, the two wardens flagrantly disregarded the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules by deliberately misusing these official identification documents.
Revenue Minister Krishna Byregowda, who also serves as the minister in-charge for Hassan district, publicly affirmed that the two officials had clearly violated administrative directives. He emphasized, “These officials provided official IDs to unauthorized individuals to facilitate their entry into the temple. Such actions are utterly unprofessional for government employees and directly contradict the public interest.”
Minister Byregowda further clarified that this incident was isolated. He commended the broader team, stating, “Aside from this singular event, all other government employees have performed an exemplary job in ensuring superb arrangements for the public. It represents a fantastic team effort, and significant credit is due to all government officers who are diligently carrying out their duties.”