A group of writers, civil society activists, and scholars have sharply criticized the Central University of Karnataka (CUK), Kalaburagi, for cancelling a special lecture by translator Deepa Bhasthi. The cancellation happened at the last minute with the university citing "technical reasons." However, the group alleges the true cause was her translation work involving a Muslim woman writer, which they called a "hidden" and unjustifiable reason. Deepa Bhasthi is an internationally recognized writer and translator. Her English translation of Kannada author Banu Mushtaq’s short story collection won the Booker Prize, gaining global fame for Kannada literature. She is also known for her participation in literary workshops and discussions worldwide. The statement from the critics said Humanities Department students had prepared extensively for her lecture. The sudden cancellation has, they claim, dampened student enthusiasm and hurt the academic environment. The group described the event as proof of declining academic standards influenced by "communal and sectarian attitudes" within the university. They stressed Ms. Bhasthi is not a controversial figure and is not linked to any ideological group. The statement accused the authorities of giving in to "intolerant" and "authoritarian" thinking. The critics also expressed disappointment at the silence of the university's academic community and demanded accountability for what they called the loss of the university’s academic dignity. The statement was signed by R.K. Hudagi, Kashinath Ambalagi, Meenakshi Bali, Datta Ikkalaki, Prabhu Khanapure, Maruti Gokhale, Kodandarama, Mehraj Patel, Shreeshail Gooli, Khemanna Aldi, and Bhimashankar Biradar.