Shimla (Kameshwar Sharma): The HPU Fee Hike Protest intensified as the Student Federation of India (SFI) held a strong demonstration at Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla.
Moreover, the organization strongly opposed the recent fee increase. It called the decision anti-student and anti-education.
Students Oppose Heavy Fee Burden
SFI leaders said that the university administration took the decision in the Executive Council meeting held on 28 March 2026.
In addition, they claimed that the fee hike ranges from 10% to 15% in the university. In affiliated colleges, the increase is even higher.
Furthermore, examination fees have increased by nearly 40%. As a result, students are facing a heavy financial burden.
Poor and Middle-Class Students Affected
The HPU Fee Hike Protest highlights concerns of economically weaker students.
SFI stated that rising fees are making higher education difficult for poor and middle-class families.
Therefore, many students may be forced to give up higher studies due to financial pressure.
HPU Fee Hike Protest: SFI Criticizes University Administration
SFI strongly criticized the university administration.
According to the organization, the university is moving away from its original goal of providing accessible education.
Moreover, they said education is being turned into a business model instead of a public service.
In addition, students are not receiving proper facilities despite high fee collection.
Questions Raised on University Funds
During the HPU Fee Hike Protest, SFI questioned the financial justification of the university.
They claimed that the university collects nearly ₹90 crore annually through fees.
However, students still face issues like lack of classrooms, poor infrastructure, and limited academic resources.
As a result, questions are being raised about fund utilization.
Warning of Large-Scale Movement
SFI warned the administration that it would launch a bigger protest if the fee hike was not rolled back.
Moreover, they said they will mobilize students across the university and the entire state.
Therefore, they demanded immediate withdrawal of the fee hike decision.
In addition, they made it clear that they will continue protests until student demands are met.
5 Key Points of HPU Fee Hike Protest:
- SFI stages protest against fee hike at Himachal Pradesh University.
- Students call the decision anti-student and anti-education.
- Fees increased 10–15% and exam fees nearly 40%.
- SFI claims education is becoming unaffordable for poor students.
- Organization warns of statewide agitation if hike is not rolled back.
