The Karnataka state government's decision to merge government schools as part of the KPS Magnet Scheme and the PM Shri School initiative has sparked considerable backlash from parents and villagers. The All India Democratic Students Organisation (AIDSO) has criticized the government for allegedly shutting down neighborhood schools while claiming to improve education through its '8 Guarantees' initiative. Reports indicate that the merger process has already begun, with orders issued to merge 317 schools statewide, including Pre-University colleges. AIDSO highlighted specific cases, such as in Arsikere taluk, Hassan district, where students from various villages are proposed to be relocated to the D.M. Kurke KPS Magnet School. Community members have voiced their opposition, submitting representations to local education authorities demanding the retention of their neighborhood schools. AIDSO's Mysuru district secretary, Nitin, has urged the government to withdraw the merger plans and called on citizens to support the movement to 'Save Our Neighbourhood School'.