IIT Guwahati Defends Fee Hike Amid Student Protest, Emphasizes Welfare Focus

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has revised its semester fees for the first time in seven years, with an increase of ₹8,900 per semester for continuing students. In a press statement, the institute stated that the revision was necessitated to bolster student welfare and enhance allocations for hostel-level events, cultural and sports festivals, and Gymkhana-led initiatives beyond just Inter-IIT participation.

Following the announcement of the revised fee structure last month, a group of postgraduate and PhD students sought clarity through an open-house meeting. In response, the institute organized a four-hour-long open discussion on July 17, 2025, where administrators provided a detailed breakdown of the revised components.

According to IIT Guwahati, the students were also informed about financial aid options, including provisions for loans under the Students' Welfare Fund to support those in need. At the conclusion of the meeting, the student community was invited to submit a formal representation should they have further concerns. However, the administration noted that no such submission has been received since the meeting.

In an unexpected turn, a small group of students staged a protest on July 22 outside the administrative building, without any prior notice or formal communication of their grievances. The institute emphasized that this protest was not representative of the larger student community, stating that the majority of the 8,400-strong student body has not joined the demonstration.

Significantly, the protest has also drawn criticism from the elected student representatives. In a statement, the student body said, “Despite the ongoing dialogue within the elected student body to put up a proposal for consideration of fee revision, this small group of protesting students disobeyed the student representatives, jeopardizing their efforts at reconciliation. The elected student body is not part of this protest and is also working through the proper channel for an amicable solution to the increased components of the fee.”

Meanwhile, IIT Guwahati reaffirmed its commitment to student welfare and constructive dialogue. The institute encouraged students to continue engaging through formal and structured channels to address their concerns effectively.

Also Read: “Get Loans If You Don’t Have Money”: Stubborn IITG Director Snubs Protesting Students

Also Read: Is IIT Guwahati Using Fee Hikes to Fill Budget Gaps at Students’ Expense?