Gadag, Aug. 6 -- A major controversy has erupted in Gadag after students of the Post-Matric Boys' Hostel, run by the Social Welfare Department, alleged that government property worth several lakh rupees has mysteriously disappeared from the hostel premises.

According to the students, more than 20 computers in good working condition and six air conditioners installed in the hostel's computer laboratory have gone missing. They alleged that officials of the Social Welfare Department were responsible for removing the equipment and demanded an immediate inquiry into the disappearance of the assets.

The hostel, located in Surya Nagar, had been equipped with a modern computer laboratory at government expense to promote digital learning among e...