Telugu University ignores attendance rules in Hyderabad
HYDERABAD: Authorities at Suravaram Pratap Reddy Telugu University have not implemented the government-mandated facial attendance system, raising concerns over accountability and transparency.
The state government introduced facial attendance across educational institutions to enforce punctuality and ensure staff accountability. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy directed its implementation from schools to universities. However, officials at the Telugu University have not complied with these orders.
Biometric system discontinued within months
The university runs multiple programmes, including research, postgraduate, degree, diploma, certificate and distance education, across four faculties. Around 1,000 students are enrolled, while 260 teaching and non-teaching staff are employed.
When the university shifted from Nampally to Bachupally two years ago, a biometric attendance system was introduced. However, it was discontinued within three to four months. Since then, no alternative system has been implemented, even as facial attendance is operational in government schools, junior colleges, degree colleges, polytechnics and professional colleges across the state.
Irregular attendance draws criticism
With the campus located in Bachupally, away from the city centre, staff are accused of not adhering to working hours. Reports indicate that internal group politics among employees has stalled the implementation of attendance systems.
Students allege that some staff arrive around 11 am and leave by 3 pm or 4 pm, while others work only two to three hours a day. Only a few employees reportedly follow regular timings.
The Vice-Chancellor is also said to visit the campus only once or twice a week. Officials from the Higher Education Department have not intervened despite the situation.
