Telugu Academy funds dispute raises its head again!

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Even a decade after the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014, unresolved asset-sharing disputes between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana continue to trigger friction. The latest flashpoint is the long-pending division of funds related to the Telugu Academy, with Andhra Pradesh authorities pressing for immediate release of their rightful share.

Chairman of the AP Telugu and Sanskrit Academy, R D Wilson, has demanded that the Telangana government disburse the dues without further delay. He alleged that despite clear directives from the Supreme Court of India, the payments have not been honoured, placing severe financial strain on the functioning of the akademi in Andhra Pradesh.

According to Wilson, the shortage of funds has begun to directly affect academic and cultural activities, including publishing and institutional expansion. He noted that representations have already been made to state authorities, including Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav, seeking interim financial support. Additionally, he urged the government to immediately release Rs 50 crore in pending dues related to the printing of Intermediate textbooks.

Under the bifurcation framework, assets and deposits of the Telugu Academy were to be divided in a 58:42 ratio between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The matter subsequently reached the judiciary, with courts directing that Andhra Pradesh’s share be paid along with 6% interest, reinforcing earlier High Court rulings. However, officials in AP claim there has been little movement on the ground despite these legal mandates.

Beyond the dispute, Wilson outlined a broader roadmap for strengthening the Academy. He proposed establishing a virtual Akademi model on the lines of Tamil Nadu, seeking government land allocation for a dedicated campus, which he said could be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 15 crore. He also called for granting cabinet rank to the Academy chairman, filling 13 vacant posts, and mandating private educational institutions to procure Akademi publications.