LUCKNOW: Students of a private inter college in Azamgarh skipped classes and staged a protest outside their school, alleging excessive fee collection, shortage of teachers and other irregularities in the institution.The protesting students questioned why they were being asked to pay an additional Rs 500, claiming they were told that the money was being collected on the instructions of the management. Students alleged that fees were also collected under different heads, including maintenance and library expenses, without satisfactory explanations.

The students also raised concerns over the quality of education and the shortage of subject teachers.

One of their major demands was the appointment of a chemistry teacher. Following the protest, they said they received an assurance that a chemistry teacher would be made available within 48 hours.

Tension reportedly arose during the demonstration when students alleged that a woman teacher asked them to end their protest and return to classes. The students maintained that they wanted to continue studying at the same institution but needed adequate teachers and better academic facilities.

People supporting the protesting students alleged that education officials had earlier directed the institution to refund certain amounts collected from students, but the money had not been returned. They also levelled allegations regarding the management of the institution and staff appointments.The students said they were seeking fair treatment, proper teaching facilities and clarity over the fees being charged. They warned that if the promised chemistry teacher was not provided within 48 hours, they would return to the school and resume their protest.