SHILLONG : The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) has strongly opposed the proposed increase in fees in government colleges across Meghalaya, terming the move as “unjust, regressive, and anti-student.”In a letter addressed to Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui on Monday, the Council’s Education Cell expressed serious concern over the impact of the proposed fee hike, stating that it would disproportionately affect students from rural and economically weaker sections.The HYC stated that such a decision would place an additional financial burden on students who are already struggling, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. It emphasized that government colleges were established to ensure affordable and equitable access to higher education, and any increase in fees would defeat this core objective.Questioning the government’s justification for introducing financial autonomy in institutions, the Council argued that such measures should not come at the cost of accessibility and inclusiveness for students.Highlighting ground realities, the HYC also pointed out that delays in scholarship disbursement have already been causing distress among students. According to the Council, any fee hike at this stage would only worsen the situation and deepen educational inequality in the state.The organization has demanded immediate withdrawal of the proposed fee hike, enhancement of funding for government colleges, timely release of scholarships, and proper consultation with students before implementing any major policy changes.Reaffirming its stand, HYC Joint Secretary Pynskhem Kharjahrin said that the Council will continue to stand firmly with the student community and oppose any move that threatens their rights and future.