Dharmasthala Case: Vested Interests Spreading Misinformation Against Dr. Heggade, Says SDM Institutions
In a joint statement, the Secretary, CEO, principals, teachers and staff said vested interests have been circulating “false and fabricated narratives” on social media in an attempt to tarnish the image of Dr. Heggade
Mangaluru: The management, faculty, and staff of all SDM educational institutions in Ujire have strongly condemned what they described as a “malicious attempt” targeting Dharmadhikari Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade and the legacy of Dharmasthala.
In a joint statement, the Secretary, CEO, principals, teachers and staff said vested interests have been circulating “false and fabricated narratives” on social media in an attempt to tarnish the image of Dr. Heggade, who has been at the helm of Dharmasthala’s social, cultural, and educational initiatives for over four decades.
“We strongly and unequivocally condemn these malicious attempts to defame Dr. Heggade and Dharmasthala. We stand united, not just as colleagues but as beneficiaries of his vision and values. Let it be known—Dharmasthala is not built on bricks and walls. It is built on faith, truth, and unwavering dedication to dharma. And no lie, no rumor, no conspiracy can shake that foundation. We continue to stand with our revered Dharmadhikari, Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, with respect, loyalty, and gratitude,” the statement stated.
“We urge the public to see through these false narratives and recognize them for what they are—attempts to disrupt and destroy a legacy built on selfless service and love for humanity,” they added.
They asserted that Dharmasthala, with its 800-year-old legacy rooted in Chaturvidha Dana (the fourfold path of charity), has stood as a beacon of faith and service to humanity. Under Dr. Heggade’s leadership, the SDM Educational Society now runs 56 institutions across Karnataka, serving over 30,000 students and employing nearly 8,000 staff. The establishment of SDM University in Dharwad in 2019 was cited as a milestone in higher education, with several colleges under the trust earning top NAAC grades and national recognition.
The statement noted that women constitute a significant portion of faculty, staff, and students across SDM institutions and have always worked in a “safe, respectful, and empowering environment.” They said at no point have they faced discrimination or harassment, and that equality and dignity remain core values practiced within the institutions.
“Despite the enormous good that has been accomplished, it deeply saddens us that certain individuals with vested interests have been relentlessly spreading falsehoods and engaging in a malicious smear campaign against our revered Dharmadhikari Dr. Veerendra Heggade. For years, these baseless accusations and deliberately fabricated narratives have circulated on social media, attempting to tarnish the image of a man who has devoted his life to the welfare of others,” the statement read.
“This intentional misinformation not only disrespects a highly respected leader but also insults the thousands of students, staff, devotees, and citizens who have directly experienced his compassion and leadership,” it added.
