A language-related controversy at AMC Engineering College in Bengaluru escalated into protests and police action after a hostel warden was accused of telling students not to speak Kannada on campus, triggering widespread outrage and debate.

A fresh controversy has gripped AMC Engineering College in Bengaluru after a video allegedly showing a hostel warden instructing students not to speak Kannada on campus went viral on social media.

The video, which surfaced earlier this week, purportedly features the warden, identified as Suresh PV, telling students to use Kannada only at home and not within the college premises.

The remarks immediately drew sharp criticism from students, Kannada organisations, and members of the public, who viewed the statement as disrespectful to Karnataka’s language and cultural identity.

Many students said the comments made them feel uncomfortable and marginalised within their own state.

As the clip spread rapidly online, it intensified emotions and set the stage for protests, with calls for strict action against the accused warden.

Students and Kannada Groups Take to the Streets

Following the circulation of the video, students and Kannada activists gathered outside the college campus to protest what they described as an “anti-Kannada” remark. Protesters raised slogans asserting linguistic pride and demanded the immediate removal and arrest of the warden.

Several Kannada organisations also joined the demonstrations, arguing that educational institutions in Karnataka must respect the local language and ensure that students are free to speak Kannada without fear or restriction. Protesters accused the college administration of failing to act swiftly and allowing the situation to escalate.

Students participating in the protest said the issue was not merely about one individual’s comment but about dignity, respect, and the right to use one’s mother tongue freely in a public space. Some also expressed concerns about power dynamics within hostels, where wardens exercise authority over students’ daily lives.

Police Register Case, Warden Arrested

Amid mounting pressure, a formal complaint was filed by activist Mahesh Hatti at the Bannerghatta police station. Acting on the complaint, the police registered a case against Suresh PV and took him into custody for questioning.

A senior police officer confirmed the arrest, stating that the case was registered based on allegations that the warden’s remarks could provoke disharmony and hurt public sentiment. “We have taken the accused into custody and are verifying the facts. Further action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation,” the officer said.

Police sources added that they are examining the authenticity of the video, recording statements from students, and determining whether the comments were made in the manner alleged. The accused warden is expected to be produced before a court as per procedure.

College Management Responds

In response to the growing controversy, the AMC Engineering College management issued a clarification distancing itself from the alleged remarks. College officials reportedly stated that the institution does not endorse discrimination or restrictions based on language and that Kannada, along with other languages, is respected on campus.

Sources within the administration said an internal inquiry has been initiated to understand the circumstances under which the remarks were made. “The college promotes inclusivity and diversity. If any staff member has acted contrary to these values, appropriate action will be taken,” an official was quoted as saying.

The management also appealed to students and the public to maintain calm and allow due process to take its course, assuring full cooperation with law enforcement authorities.

Language, Identity, and Karnataka’s Sensitivities

Language has long been a sensitive and emotive issue in Karnataka, where Kannada is closely tied to regional identity and cultural pride. Over the years, several disputes have emerged around the use of Kannada in public spaces, workplaces, and educational institutions, often leading to protests and political responses.

Many activists argue that while Karnataka welcomes people from across the country and the world, respect for the local language is non-negotiable. At the same time, experts and educators caution that campuses must remain spaces of inclusion, where linguistic diversity is acknowledged without coercion or hostility.

The AMC Engineering College incident has once again highlighted the delicate balance institutions must maintain between respecting local culture and ensuring a welcoming environment for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Students Share Mixed Reactions

While many students supported the protests and police action, others expressed concern over the rapid escalation of the issue. Some students said that although the alleged comment was insensitive, the situation could have been addressed through dialogue and internal grievance mechanisms.

A few students also raised fears about increased surveillance and restrictions within hostels following the controversy. “We want respect for Kannada, but we also want a peaceful campus where issues are resolved through discussion,” a student said.

These differing views reflect the broader debate unfolding across social media and public forums, where opinions remain divided on how such incidents should be handled.

What Lies Ahead

As investigations continue, the focus remains on establishing the facts and determining accountability. The police inquiry and the college’s internal review are expected to clarify whether the alleged remarks were made, in what context, and whether they violated any laws or institutional policies.

The incident has sparked a wider conversation about sensitivity, responsibility, and communication within educational spaces.

For many, it serves as a reminder that authority figures on campuses must exercise care in their words and actions, especially in culturally diverse settings.

As Bengaluru watches closely, the outcome of this case may influence how similar disputes are addressed in the future-both legally and socially-underscoring the need for empathy, dialogue, and mutual respect in shared spaces.