Telangana High Court Questions State Over College Certificate Harassment
The Telangana High Court, sitting in Hyderabad, has raised serious questions about the state government's systems to protect students from harassment by educational institutions. During a hearing on Thursday, the court specifically questioned whether any effective mechanism exists to prevent colleges from holding back student certificates due to pending scholarship payments and tuition fee reimbursements.
Court Demands Grievance Redressal Mechanism
A bench comprising Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh and Justice GM Mohiuddin directed the minorities welfare department to establish a proper grievance redressal system. The court emphasized that innocent students should not be forced to approach courts or human rights commissions simply to retrieve their certificates, which are sometimes withheld for months.
"What is the mechanism... to ensure that the circular is implemented? Any grievance redressal cell, toll free number, any help desk?" the High Court asked pointedly during the proceedings.
Background of the Case
The court's observations came after the minorities welfare department informed the bench that while bills remain pending with the finance department, it had issued a circular in 2024 to all educational institutions. This circular specifically instructed colleges not to take coercive measures against students by retaining their certificates over unpaid fees.
The bench also directed the finance department to file a counter within two weeks regarding the aspect of pending bills. The court noted the particular vulnerability of scholarship-dependent students, stating: "They are studying on scholarships because they cannot afford the fees. For them, even to approach a court for release of certificates, is not free."
Public Interest Litigation Details
The hearing was part of a public interest litigation filed by ASEEM (Association for Socio Economic Empowerment of the Marginalised) and Students Islamic Organisation, Telangana. The PIL sought several important directions from the government:
- Immediate release of all pending scholarships and tuition reimbursements
- Strict prohibition against colleges withholding original certificates over unpaid dues
- An end to what the petitioners called "unjust coercion" against students
The court has posted the matter for further hearing on March 3, giving the concerned departments time to respond to the court's queries and directions.
Broader Implications for Student Rights
This case highlights a significant issue affecting economically disadvantaged students across Telangana. When colleges withhold certificates over pending payments, students face multiple challenges:
- Inability to pursue higher education or employment opportunities
- Financial burden of legal proceedings to retrieve their documents
- Psychological stress and academic disruption
The High Court's intervention underscores the need for systemic solutions that protect students from institutional harassment while ensuring educational institutions receive legitimate payments through proper channels.
