Colleges in Marathwada accused of demanding fees from economically weaker section girls despite free education scheme
"Colleges mislead girl students and their parents by claiming that only a partial waiver is offered by govt in fees and they should pay exam fees and other expenses. Fearing academic loss, girl students or their parents often do not raise complaints against such claims," educational activist Prashant Sathe said.
According to a govt decision announced last July, girl students from EWS, SEBC and OBC categories with an annual family income of Rs 8 lakh or less are eligible for free higher education in govt-approved institutes.
Despite this, some colleges in Marathwada allegedly continued to demand fees from such beneficiaries.
The joint director of education (higher) for the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division had warned colleges against this practice last Aug.
The education department authorities said no formal complaint was received from girls or their parents about the alleged charging of fees during the current academic year.
"It is a very serious matter if eligible girls are denied free education, and the institutes concerned will be responsible for future action against them. Students and parents are requested to lodge a complaint if fees are charged," a senior education department official said.
Educational activist Tukaram Saraf said govt must launch a helpline number for girl students. "A centralised mechanism is necessary to address such complaints. Such a measure would put a check on errant practices and ensure free education for girls," he added.
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