‘Chalo Secretariat’: Telangana colleges plan rally over pending fee reimbursement

Hyderabad: Private professional colleges across Telangana, under the banner of the Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Institutions (FATHI), have announced plans for a ‘Chalo Secretariat’ rally on November 10 or 11, intensifying their ongoing protest against the delay in fee reimbursement payments by the State government.

Only Rs 300 crore cleared so far

The colleges have been on an indefinite strike since November 3, demanding the immediate release of pending dues under the government’s fee reimbursement scheme.

As per reports, the state had promised to clear Rs 1,200 crore before Diwali, but only Rs 300 crore has been disbursed so far.

FATHI president Dr N Yadaiah stated that the association rejected the government’s latest offer to release an additional Rs 300 crore, insisting instead on a minimum payment of Rs 500 crore, about half of the remaining Rs 900 crore pending amount.

Salaries and maintenance pending

“We have been patient for months. Many institutions are struggling to pay staff salaries and maintain operations. We are only asking for what was promised,” he said.

The federation has also called for a large public meeting on November 8, expected to gather nearly one lakh teachers and staff members from private colleges across the state.

“Our concerns are not addressed by then, we will proceed with the ‘Chalo Secretariat’ march,” added Dr Yadaiah.

Meanwhile, the Telangana government has formed a committee jointly with FATHI to explore ways to make the fee reimbursement system financially sustainable.

Govt panel asked to submit report in 3 months

After discussions held at Praja Bhavan with Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, the committee was formally constituted to study and propose reforms.

According to the government order, the panel will examine whether a dedicated Trust Bank can be established to mobilise and manage funds for the fee reimbursement programme. It will also review mechanisms to improve transparency and efficiency in disbursals.

“The committee has been asked to study suggestions and proposals and submit a report within three months for further necessary action,” an official statement said.

The outcome of the upcoming meetings and the committee’s recommendations will likely determine how the state balances its financial constraints with the commitments made to private educational institutions across Telangana.