Public-Trust Betrayal Sparks Outcry at University of Madras

The SPCSS-TN accuses the University of Madras of betraying public trust by using its corpus fund for expenses, risking its public-funded character. Concerns are raised about fee hikes and the potential shift toward a 'pay and study' model, while calling for accountability and citizen awareness.

The Students' Parents and Citizens' Collective for Social Struggle Tamil Nadu (SPCSS-TN) has launched a strong critique against the University of Madras administration. The group claims a Special Syndicate decision to utilize the university's corpus funds jeopardizes its status as a public-funded institution.

Education activists are alarmed that the decision to access corpus funds for pending retirement benefits contravenes previous assurances to the court. SPCSS-TN's General Secretary, P B Prince Gajendra Babu, rebuked the university for eschewing government financial support, insisting that state assistance is crucial.

Babu expressed fears that reliance on corpus funds could lead to increased tuition fees, effectively converting the once publicly-funded institution into a commercial entity. He connects these financial maneuvers to the National Education Policy 2020, suggesting it could push universities towards a 'pay and study' approach.

(With inputs from agencies.)