Govt releases pending ePASS scholarships after massive UoHSU-led protest
For over three years, beneficiaries of the TS ePASS have reported non-receipt of funds
HYDERABAD: Three attempts by protesting members from the University of Hyderabad Students’ Union (UoHSU) to burn an effigy of the state government for its inordinate delay in disbursing ePASS scholarships were foiled by the police inside the campus. Ironically, following the protests, the state government released the pending scholarships.
The Telangana ePASS (Electronic Payment and Application System of Scholarships) is a scheme designed to provide financial assistance to SC, ST, BC, EBC and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) students. The programme offers support for both pre-matric and post-matric education through fee reimbursements.
For over three years, beneficiaries of the TS ePASS have reported non-receipt of funds.
A first-year history undergraduate said “During my intermediate education, I managed expenses while living with my parents. But here at UoH, I can’t rely on them for fees. ePASS is essential for me.”
The university offers a mess fee exemption up to ₹13,500 but anything that is in excess must be borne by the students. The delay in disbursement is leading to challenges in semester registration and graduation due to unpaid dues.
An exasperated third-year integrated MA student said “I’ve applied for the fellowship annually for two years without success. The portal indicates funds are disbursed to the treasury, but they never reach us.” This situation has compelled many students to seek part-time employment to settle their dues.
The UoHSU has been actively addressing this issue. Its general secretary Nihad Suleiman told Deccan Chronicle, “Despite sending representations to the CMO and the TS ePASS Department, the issue remains unresolved. BC and EBC students have not received their scholarships for three years and SC/ST students for the last two years.”
