Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has issued a strong warning to affiliated colleges that are not following the state government’s free education scheme for girl students. The university has made it clear that strict action will be taken against institutions that continue to collect fees from eligible female students, despite the policy being in place. Colleges that fail to submit proof of refunding the fees by the given deadline may face disaffiliation or other disciplinary steps.

I’m writing about this topic because education for girls is still a challenge in many parts of India, especially when financial issues come into play. The government’s move to waive fees for girls is a step towards equality, but it loses its impact if colleges ignore the rule. When educational institutions bypass such schemes, they not only disobey government orders but also create unnecessary pressure on students and their families. It’s important that we talk about these issues and ensure accountability from institutions so that more girls can continue their studies without fear of dropping out due to money problems.

What the Free Education Scheme for Girls Is All About

The Maharashtra government launched the scheme to encourage higher education among girl students by waiving off their tuition and exam fees in government-aided and unaided colleges. This scheme is applicable to girls pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate courses who meet certain eligibility criteria such as income limit and domicile status.

SPPU, one of the largest universities in Maharashtra, is responsible for ensuring that the colleges affiliated with it follow this policy strictly.

What SPPU Said in Its Circular

On July 19, SPPU issued a circular reminding all affiliated colleges to comply with the free education scheme. The university directed colleges to refund any fees collected from girl students eligible under the scheme. If a college has already charged fees, they must return it and provide documentary evidence to the university on or before July 31.

Failure to do so could result in the university taking steps such as:

• Denying exam forms and results for the college
• Stopping grants or support from the university
• Initiating the process of de-affiliation

SPPU has asked principals and management bodies to take this matter seriously and ensure no girl student is denied her rightful benefit.

Why Colleges Are Ignoring the Scheme

There are a few reasons why some colleges may be hesitating to implement the scheme:

• Delay in reimbursement from the government, leading to cash flow issues for the college
• Lack of clarity about who qualifies for the scheme
• Administrative laziness or negligence from the college’s side

But none of these reasons justify ignoring a government-approved education policy. The burden should not fall on students who are already from underprivileged backgrounds.

Real Impact on Students

If a college refuses to waive fees or delays refunds, many girl students are forced to drop out or shift to other institutions. In rural or semi-urban areas, where family income is limited, even a few thousand rupees can make the difference between continuing education and quitting.

The whole point of this scheme is to remove financial hurdles and boost female participation in higher education. Institutions not supporting this goal are doing harm, knowingly or unknowingly.