BC Students Demand Fee Arrears, More Schools
Many students said they were being denied certificates, placements, and higher education admissions due to unpaid fees
Hyderabad: Students gathered at Indira Park demanding immediate release of ₹6,000 crore in pending scholarships and fee reimbursement for over 14 lakh college students. Organised by the Telangana BC Students Association led by Vemula Ramakrishna, the students protested what they called the government’s inaction over long-pending educational dues.
Many students said they were being denied certificates, placements, and higher education admissions due to unpaid fees. “We are losing jobs, foreign admissions, and our dignity. If our certificates are withheld, what future are we being promised?” a protesting PG student had asked.
Protesters also criticised the proposal to route scholarships through a trust-managed bank system, calling it a ploy to weaken the scheme. “Don’t float fancy banks. Clear the dues,” said one placard.
Speakers pointed out that AP had released funds in two phases, while Telangana had not paid even ₹20 in the last 20 months of Congress rule. “Even contractors get bills passed with commission cuts. But 14 lakh poor students are left hanging,” said former MP and BC Association leader R. Krishnaiah.
Demands included the sanction of 119 furukul schools and 100 college hostels for BC community students, and a 20 per cent seat hike in existing residential schools and hostels. Students said many are living out of bus stands and railway stations for lack of hostel accommodation.
