The All India Democratic Students Organisation (AIDSO) marked its 72nd foundation day on December 28 with events in Karnataka. The celebrations included flag hoisting and meetings to oppose what AIDSO calls anti-student policies by the State government. In Kalaburagi, district council secretary Venkatesh Devadurg criticised the Karnataka Public Schools magnet scheme, warning it would shut almost 40,000 government schools and block education for poor children. "Under the guise of reforms, education is being handed over to private interests. Closing government schools will permanently shut the doors of knowledge for lakhs of poor children," he said. In Ballari, leader Ravikiran J.P. said commercialisation is making higher education unaffordable for poor students. "Only those with money can study medicine, engineering or higher courses," he said. District president K. Eeranna warned that rural students will suffer most from the proposed school closures and urged public opposition. Similarly, in Hosapete, district secretary U. Umadevi condemned the increasing commercialisation of education and called on students to uphold the ideals of social reformers and freedom fighters. Many AIDSO members and students joined the events, highlighting concerns over the State government's education policies. The organisation remains committed to securing scientific, secular, democratic, and universal education for all.