FATHI demands withdrawal of CM Revanth's 'criminal waste' remark on engineers, urges dialogue

The Federation of Associations of Telangana Higher Institutions (FATHI) has condemned the reported remarks of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who described engineering graduates as 'criminal waste' while addressing concerns about employability and skills in the state. The federation termed the remarks as 'unfortunate, insensitive and demoralising' for lakhs of engineering students, graduates, parents, faculty members, and educational institutions across Telangana.

In a statement, FATHI emphasised that engineering education has been a key contributor to Telangana's transformation into a leading technology and innovation hub. Over several decades, engineering institutions in the state have produced professionals serving global technology companies, research organisations, government projects, start-ups, and industries in India and abroad. The federation argued that generalised remarks against students or graduates overlook these contributions and undermine the morale of a generation that forms the backbone of the state's knowledge economy.

While acknowledging that employability challenges require serious attention, FATHI stressed that the solution lies in collaboration between the government, universities, industry, and educational institutions. It called for constructive dialogue rather than sweeping statements that stigmatise students. The federation noted that engineering education, like other streams, must adapt to changing industry demands, but such adaptation requires policy support and partnership, not criticism of individuals.

FATHI also highlighted the significant role of private higher educational institutions, which account for nearly 95% of the institutions in the state. These institutions, it said, must be treated as partners in nation-building. The federation expressed concern that private institutions are often viewed with suspicion, despite their substantial contribution to expanding access to higher education in Telangana.

The organisation further raised the severe financial crisis faced by higher educational institutions due to pending fee reimbursement dues, reportedly amounting to more than ₹12,000 crore. It questioned why, despite repeated representations, discussions with higher education stakeholders have not taken place. FATHI demanded an immediate dialogue to address not only the fee reimbursement issue but also broader reforms in higher education, including curriculum updates, skill development, and industry-academia linkages.

FATHI demanded that Mr. Revanth Reddy withdraw the reported remarks and issue a clarification expressing confidence in Telangana's engineering youth. The federation said that such a step would help restore confidence among students and parents, and signal the government's commitment to supporting education rather than disparaging it.

The controversy comes amid ongoing debates about the quality of engineering education in India, with many experts pointing to gaps between classroom learning and industry requirements. However, educators and students argue that painting an entire cohort as 'waste' is unfair and ignores the resilience and achievements of millions of graduates. The demand for a structured dialogue reflects a broader call for a more constructive approach to addressing systemic challenges in higher education.

As the state grapples with these issues, the interaction between the government and educational institutions will be crucial. FATHI's response underscores the growing impatience among educators with what they perceive as dismissive attitudes toward their field. Whether the Chief Minister responds with a clarification or initiates the proposed dialogue remains to be seen, but the issue has brought to the fore the urgent need for collaborative solutions in higher education.