A major crisis is brewing in Telangana’s higher education sector as the Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Education Institutions (FATHI) announces plans for an indefinite closure of colleges. This drastic step comes after the state government allegedly failed to disburse ₹600 crore in outstanding dues for the Fee Reimbursement scheme, a payment that was explicitly promised just days ago.
FATHI representatives have scheduled a general body meeting for Wednesday to finalize their strategy. It is highly anticipated that colleges will commence an indefinite shutdown from October 6, immediately following the Dasara vacation, potentially disrupting academic activities for countless students.
Earlier, FATHI had initiated a similar indefinite strike of private colleges across Telangana on September 15. However, the strike was promptly called off on the same day after Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka intervened, engaging in discussions and agreeing to release the pending funds and settle arrears.
The government had assured the educational institutions that an initial installment of ₹600 crore would be released before Dasara, with an additional ₹600 crore to follow. However, FATHI representatives claim that none of the promised funds have been released to date, prompting their decision to reconvene and deliberate on the closure of colleges once more.