Private professional colleges in Telangana have called off their indefinite strike after the state government agreed to release ₹600 crore towards fee reimbursement arrears. The decision came late on Monday night following talks between ministers and representatives of the Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Education (FATHI).
- Govt to release ₹600 crore immediately for fee reimbursement arrears.
- Pending dues will be cleared in a phased manner.
- Colleges to reopen from Tuesday across the state.
- A committee is to be formed for the rationalisation of the reimbursement scheme.
Government’s Assurance
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, who also holds the Finance portfolio, led the discussions with college managements. He announced that while it would be a financial burden, the government had decided to release ₹600 crore against tokens already issued. Vikramarka further said the remaining arrears would be cleared in phases. He also blamed the previous BRS government for leaving behind pending dues of nearly ₹10,000 crore. To address long-term issues, the government will set up a committee to rationalise the fee reimbursement scheme. Ministers Sridhar Babu and Uttam Kumar Reddy were also present during the negotiations.
Colleges to Resume Classes
Following the breakthrough, FATHI confirmed that all private professional colleges, including those offering engineering, pharmacy, nursing, MBA, MCA, and BEd courses, will reopen from Tuesday. The strike was launched on Monday after repeated demands for fee reimbursement arrears went unaddressed. Earlier on September 12, FATHI had submitted a notice to the Telangana Council of Higher Education Chairman, Prof. V Balakista Reddy, demanding immediate release of at least ₹1,200 crore.
Background of the Issue
- FATHI claims arrears of nearly ₹10,000 crore are still pending.
- Colleges had warned of indefinite closure unless part of the arrears was released.
- The first round of talks on Sunday ended without resolution, but both sides agreed to continue discussions.
