Students raise concerns over delays, gaps in DBT fee reimbursement scheme

Hyderabad: Confusion over the state’s newly introduced Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)-based fee reimbursement mechanism continued on Wednesday, with some student groups raising concerns about gaps in the govt order.

Representatives of the Students Protection Force (SPF) at JNTU said that while they support the DBT model in principle they wonder what would happen if the govt failed to release funds on time.

“The order explains the action that can be taken if a student fails to pay the college after receiving the reimbursement amount, but it does not clarify what happens if the govt delays the release of funds,” said K Dilip, who heads the SPF.

The organisation also flagged the provision for releasing reimbursements in instalments, expressing concern that colleges may continue to pressure students for fee payments if govt funds are delayed.

On June 8, JNTU students submitted a representation to the Medchal-Malkajgiri collectorate seeking the release of pending reimbursement dues.

ABVP said clearing pending dues should be the priority. “Many students may struggle to secure seats if pending reimbursements are not cleared. The government should first address the backlog,” said Jeevan Kumar, National Executive Member, ABVP, Osmania University. He also questioned the timing of the GO while the matter remains before the High Court.

Responding to these concerns, a senior official from the higher education department said they are figuring out details of the process.