IIT Guwahati fee hike sparks student protests, administration justifies increase

IIT Guwahati revised the fee after seven years, and the increase for continuing students is Rs. 8,900 per semester. According to the administration, this decision has been made to support enhanced student welfare and activities, including increased allocations for hostel-level events, cultural and sports festivals, and Gymkhana-led initiatives beyond just Inter-IIT participation.

Following the announcement, a group of PG and PhD students requested an open-house discussion to address concerns. On July 17, 2025, the administration held a four-hour meeting, providing detailed explanations for the fee hike. Students were also informed about financial assistance options, including loans through the Students’ Welfare Fund for those in need.

No submissions were received until a sudden protest emerged on July 22, 2025, when a small group of students gathered outside the administrative building without prior notice.

According to the administration, the protesting students acted without consulting the elected student representatives, who expressed disappointment over the abrupt demonstration. The elected student body expressed the following: "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."