Summary
Protests at Tezpur University in Assam have entered their 79th day, with students, faculty, and staff demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh over allegations of corruption and mismanagement. The university remains shut as the protesters await a formal communication from the Ministry of Education regarding the VC's removal. A high-level delegation recently visited the campus but was held up by protesters until a written assurance was provided that the VC will not administer the university during a strict, time-bound inquiry.
Background of the Protests
Since mid-September, the Tezpur University community—comprising students, teachers, and non-teaching staff—has been protesting against Vice Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh. They accuse him of corruption and other irregularities and have demanded his removal along with an official inquiry into his actions. The protests intensified following incidents in late September, including a confrontation between the VC and students, and concerns over the handling of cultural events related to the late Zubeen Garg.
Ministry of Education's Intervention
On Saturday, a delegation from the Union Ministry of Education, led by Secretary Vineet Joshi, arrived at the Tezpur University campus to engage with the protesters. However, the delegation was unable to leave the campus until after midnight, as protesters blocked their exit. The Ministry's Joint Secretary, Saumya Gupta, provided a handwritten assurance on a blank paper stating that the VC would not administer the university during a "strict and time-bound inquiry" into the allegations against him. This assurance allowed the delegation to depart safely.
Current Status and Future Steps
The Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF), representing the protesting groups, expressed disappointment that no formal resolution has been issued despite nearly 80 days of peaceful protests. They have declared a complete shutdown of all university activities, including academics, since November 29, leading to the cancellation of all end-term examinations. The TUUF emphasized that protests will continue until an official notification confirming the VC's removal and concrete actions are taken.
Statements from Officials and University Staff
Secretary Vineet Joshi stated that the Ministry is reviewing all information and will take appropriate action in the university's best interest. He noted that two fact-finding inquiries have already been conducted. The university's Registrar in-charge, Chandan Goswami, confirmed that Mass Communication Professor Joya Chakraborty, previously named pro-VC, will not assume charge, and that senior faculty member Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya will serve as acting VC. Police reinforcements have been deployed at the campus entrance to maintain order, with protesters, including many women, peacefully blocking access to prevent police intervention.
Overall, the situation remains tense as the university community awaits formal steps from the Ministry of Education to resolve the ongoing crisis.
