Guwahati, July 6 -- Gauhati University is facing a severe financial crisis, with an estimated annual deficit of nearly Rs 80 crore, prompting the administration to consider drastic cost-cutting measures, including a proposal to reduce pension payments to retired employees by 50 per cent.

The proposal, discussed at a recent meeting of the university's Executive Council, has sparked concern among retired staff and employees, who fear that the move could significantly affect their livelihoods.

According to officials, the university's financial troubles have been mounting over the years as expenditure on salaries, pensions and day-to-day operations has steadily increased, while government funding and internal revenue have failed to keep pac...