Hyderabad: Stadium Snub: FATHI Approaches HC
Tensions simmer in Telangana’s education sector as the Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Institutions (FATHI) turns to the High Court amid escalating protests over unpaid fee reimbursements. With private colleges on indefinite shutdown since early November, the group’s planned massive teachers’ gathering hit a wall when police withheld venue approval. This legal move highlights the growing rift between institutions and the state government, just as arrears top Rs 10,000 crore.
Roots of the Reimbursement Row
Private higher education outfits across Telangana have been vocal about delayed tuition fee refunds and scholarships, stalling operations and student progress. FATHI, representing staff from all 33 districts, kicked off an indefinite bandh on November 3 to demand at least Rs 5,000 crore in immediate releases. The standoff has already disrupted pharmacy exams and sparked student sit-ins, underscoring how these funds tie directly to academic continuity.
Planned Rally Meets Roadblock
FATHI scheduled the “Telangana Teachers’ Swaantana Sabha” for November 8 at the iconic LB Stadium in Hyderabad, eyeing turnout from over 100,000 educators. The event aimed to rally support and press for resolutions, including key personnel shifts in the Higher Education Department. However, Hyderabad City Police revoked permission, citing curbs on large assemblies near sensitive government zones like the Assembly and Secretariat.
Alternative Venues Also Vetoed
Efforts to pivot fell flat too, with denials for spots like Secunderabad, Uppal, and Saroornagar stadiums. Federation leaders decried the move as an obstacle to legitimate advocacy, especially under the shadow of election codes that they argue shouldn’t blanket non-political forums. This chain of rejections prompted swift action, shifting focus from streets to judiciary.
High Court Petition Unfolds
On Thursday evening, FATHI lodged an urgent writ petition in the Telangana High Court, seeking directives to greenlight the gathering. The bench is slated to take it up post-lunch on Friday, potentially reshaping protest logistics. In the interim, organizers rerouted to Aurora Engineering College in Bandlaguda, vowing to press on regardless.
Ripple Effects on Education
Beyond the meet, FATHI’s agitation includes boycotting Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University exams and postponing a student long march to November 15. Student outfits from BC, SC, and ST communities joined with dharnas at Gun Park, lamenting blocked certificates and dues clearance. Critics point fingers at the government’s contractor priorities, while calls grow for expert input on fiscal fixes like the proposed Trust Bank committee.