AIDSO Slams Karnataka Government Over Delay in Distributing Shoes and Socks to Government School Students

News Flash

18 June

Even after the start of the 2025-26 academic year, lakhs of government schoolchildren left without basic footwear; AIDSO condemns state apathy

Bengaluru: As the 2025-26 academic year commenced on May 29, students across government schools in Karnataka returned to classrooms—many of them, without shoes or socks. Over two weeks into the term, students are reportedly attending classes barefoot or wearing torn footwear provided last year, triggering outrage from All India Democratic Students’ Organisation (AIDSO).

In a strongly worded statement, Ajay Kamath, State Secretary of AIDSO, condemned the Karnataka Government’s negligence, accusing it of failing to allocate the necessary funds for providing basic amenities to schoolchildren.

“The government is quick to increase allowances for MLAs but shows reluctance when it comes to providing even shoes to poor students in government schools,”
said Kamath in his press release.

Poor Students Forced to Attend Barefoot:

Reports indicate that many children are compelled to wear last year’s worn-out shoes, while others—whose old footwear is completely damaged—walk barefoot or wear slippers to school.

“With heavy monsoon rains lashing several parts of Karnataka, the absence of proper footwear is affecting the health and dignity of thousands of students,”
AIDSO noted.

Delay Due to Fund Sanction Issues:

According to media sources, the delay in distribution stems from the state government’s failure to release required funds in time. The scheme—meant to supply free uniforms, shoes, and socks—is a crucial support system for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

AIDSO’s Demands:

• Immediate distribution of shoes and socks to all government school students.

• No further delay in providing basic student necessities.

• Transparency in fund release and procurement processes.

“This isn’t a luxury but a basic necessity. The government must act without excuses.”
said Kamath.

The Bigger Picture:

This controversy emerges at a time when the government has been facing criticism over budgetary priorities, raising MLA perks while social welfare schemes lag behind. Education activists and student organizations are now calling for more equitable distribution of public funds, especially in the schooling sector.