Are Private Colleges in Telangana Planning a Strike from Nov 3 Over Fee Reimbursement?
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Synopsis
The ongoing dispute over fee reimbursement arrears has prompted private colleges in Telangana to plan an indefinite strike beginning November 3. The Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Education (FATHI) is demanding the release of significant financial dues from the state government. Will this strike impact students and the education landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Indefinite strike by private colleges in Telangana starts Nov 3.
- Demand for Rs 900 crore in fee reimbursement arrears.
- Previous assurances from the government remain unfulfilled.
- Potential impact on thousands of students' education.
- Ongoing political discussions about the issue.
Hyderabad, Oct 22 (NationPress) Private professional colleges in Telangana have once again resolved to initiate an indefinite strike starting from November 3, aiming to pressure the state government into disbursing the outstanding fee reimbursement arrears.
The Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Education (FATHI) issued strike notifications to Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao on Wednesday.
They are insisting that the government pay the dues amounting to at least Rs 900 crore before November 1; otherwise, they will be compelled to close down the colleges from November 3.
Previously, the Federation had set a deadline of October 12 for the government to release these arrears, threatening to commence a strike from October 13.
Colleges encompassing engineering, pharmacy, nursing, MBA, MCA, and B.Ed programs had initiated an indefinite strike on September 15, but they suspended it the same day following government assurances.
FATHI reported that Deputy Chief Minister Vikramarka had assured them that Rs 600 crore would be released on September 21-22 to settle the reimbursement arrears, but only Rs 200 crore was actually disbursed.
Moreover, they noted that the Deputy Chief Minister had promised that the Rs 1,200 crore dues would be cleared before Diwali.
FATHI emphasized that any further discussions regarding the arrears would solely take place with the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).
They also mentioned that if necessary, they would conduct a ‘Chalo Hyderabad’ protest alongside the students.
Last month, the Federation stated that fee reimbursement dues amounting to Rs 10,000 crore are still pending, and they demanded the immediate release of Rs 1,200 crore concerning already generated tokens.
In the meantime, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar accused the government of jeopardizing students' futures by withholding the fee reimbursement dues.
He claimed that the government is using tactics to coerce college managements into silence, asserting that the BJP will support the colleges and urging them not to delay their strike.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that the ongoing conflict between private colleges and the Telangana government highlights significant implications for the education sector. The demand for fee reimbursement is not just a financial issue; it is a matter of students' futures. While both sides present valid arguments, the urgency of resolving this matter cannot be overstated, as it directly affects thousands of students across the state.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are private colleges in Telangana going on strike?
Private colleges in Telangana are striking to demand the state government release outstanding fee reimbursement arrears, totaling at least Rs 900 crore.
What is the deadline set by the colleges for the government?
The colleges have set a deadline of November 1 for the government to release the arrears; otherwise, they will commence their strike on November 3.
What assurances did the Deputy Chief Minister provide?
The Deputy Chief Minister assured that Rs 600 crore would be released on September 21-22, but only Rs 200 crore was disbursed.
What will happen if the strike proceeds?
If the strike proceeds, it could lead to the closure of various professional colleges, impacting students' education and future prospects.
How much fee reimbursement is currently pending?
The Federation has stated that fee reimbursement arrears amounting to Rs 10,000 crore are still pending.
