Will Private Professional Colleges in Telangana Strike Again Over Fee Reimbursement Issues?
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Synopsis
In a pressing issue affecting education in Telangana, private professional colleges threaten another indefinite strike over delayed fee reimbursements. They seek clarity on government assurances and demand timely action to avoid disruption. The stakes are high as students' futures hang in the balance. Will the government respond in time?
Key Takeaways
- Private colleges in Telangana are facing financial challenges due to unpaid fee reimbursements.
- The government has set a deadline to resolve these issues.
- Students' futures are at risk if the situation is not addressed promptly.
- FATHI is demanding clarity on the government's financial commitments.
- Indefinite strikes could disrupt education significantly.
Hyderabad, Oct 1 (NationPress) Private professional colleges in Telangana are once again threatening to initiate an indefinite strike in pursuit of fee reimbursement arrears owed by the state government.
The Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Education (FATHI) has set a deadline of October 12 for the government to release these arrears.
Following a recent meeting of FATHI, its chairman N. Ramesh Babu declared that if the arrears are not settled by the specified date, the colleges will commence an indefinite strike on October 13.
The institutions involved include engineering, pharmacy, nursing, MBA, MCA, and B.Ed colleges. They had previously engaged in an indefinite strike beginning September 15, but it was suspended the same day after receiving assurances from the government.
FATHI reported that Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, who represented the government during discussions, had guaranteed that Rs. 600 crore would be released on September 21-22 for fee reimbursement arrears; however, only Rs. 200 crore has been disbursed thus far.
In light of the government’s commitment to release Rs. 1,200 crore in arrears before Diwali, FATHI leaders are demanding clarification on how this will be achieved.
They insisted that future negotiations regarding arrears will only occur with the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
Additionally, they expressed readiness to organize a ‘Chalo Hyderabad’ protest along with students if necessary.
The Association had previously halted their indefinite strike on September 15 after discussions with a ministerial group led by Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka.
He indicated that the government had positively responded to the challenges faced by college administrations and the futures of their students.
“Despite the financial strain, the government decided to promptly release Rs. 600 crore for fee reimbursement arrears, with tokens issued,” he stated.
Vikramarka, who oversees the Finance portfolio, assured that outstanding dues would be settled in a phased approach.
Citing the previous BRS government as responsible for the substantial pending dues, the Deputy CM announced the formation of a committee to rationalize the fee reimbursement scheme.
Ministers Sridhar Babu and Uttam Kumar Reddy were also present during the talks.
On September 12, FATHI had submitted a notice to Telangana Council of Higher Education Chairman, Prof V. Balakista Reddy.
The Federation claims that fee reimbursement arrears totaling Rs. 10,000 crore are still outstanding. They stated that if the government disburses Rs. 1,200 crore related to previously issued tokens, they would reconsider their decision to indefinitely close the colleges.
Point of View
The ongoing issue of fee reimbursement in Telangana underscores the challenges faced by private educational institutions. While the government's assurances are a step forward, timely execution is crucial to prevent further disruptions that could impact thousands of students. This situation requires an urgent resolution for the stability of education in the region.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main reason for the strike?
Private professional colleges in Telangana are striking due to unpaid fee reimbursement arrears from the state government.
When is the strike planned to begin?
The indefinite strike is set to commence on October 13 if the government does not release the arrears by October 12.
How much money is owed in fee reimbursements?
Fee reimbursement arrears totaling around Rs. 10,000 crore are pending.
What did the government promise regarding the arrears?
The government assured the release of Rs. 1,200 crore in arrears by Diwali, but only Rs. 200 crore has been disbursed so far.
What actions will the colleges take if their demands are not met?
If their demands are not met, colleges have indicated they may proceed with a 'Chalo Hyderabad' protest alongside students.
