Tezpur University Marks 100 Days of Protests with Hunger Strike

Tezpur University has entered its 100th day of protests against Vice Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh, culminating in a 24-hour hunger strike organized by faculty and students. This collective action aims to highlight ongoing governance failures and the perceived impunity of the VC amidst serious allegations. The university community expresses deep frustration over the lack of accountability and seeks to draw national attention to their struggle, which they believe reflects broader issues within public institutions. As tensions rise, the situation at the university remains critical, with significant resignations among faculty and staff since the protests began.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 29, 2025, 13:05 IST

Protests Escalate at Tezpur University

Tezpur, Dec 29: In a significant escalation of their ongoing protests against alleged misconduct by Vice Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh, members of the Tezpur University community have initiated a 24-hour hunger strike, commemorating 100 days of their struggle.

The hunger strike, which began at midnight on Monday, is being organized by the Tezpur University Teachers' Association (TUTA), the Tezpur University Non-Teaching Employees' Association (TUNTEA), and the student body.

"This collective action signifies 100 days of persistent democratic struggle, characterized not by resolution but by silence, delays, and growing disappointment," stated a member of the Tezpur University United Front (TUUF).

The prolonged absence of Singh, along with the lack of action from the authorities, has led to administrative paralysis within the institution and diminished public trust, according to a TUUF volunteer.

"We strongly denounce the ongoing impunity of the absentee VC Shambhu Nath Singh, despite serious allegations and continuous opposition from the university community," the member added.

Through this hunger strike, stakeholders aim to attract national attention to what they perceive as a systemic governance failure.

"This issue transcends the university; it raises concerns about the credibility of public institutions and the moral integrity of the governing system. Our movement is resolute, and our demand for justice will not diminish over time or fatigue," emphasized a student.

The TUUF representative further noted that the hunger strike symbolizes deep frustration and moral distress over the "complete lack of accountability" after 100 days of peaceful protests, memoranda, inquiries, and appeals.

"Our struggle has revealed a troubling reality: a system more focused on protecting those in power than on preserving institutional integrity and the future of students," she remarked.

Tensions at Tezpur University have been high since mid-September, with students accusing the VC and university authorities of disrespecting cultural icon Zubeen Garg during the period of mourning for his death.

In addition to financial irregularities, the university community is protesting against alleged ecological damage and deforestation occurring on the scenic campus under Singh's leadership.

Following a heated confrontation with students on September 22, the VC has refrained from visiting the campus.

Since the protests began in September, at least 11 faculty members and senior officials have either resigned from their positions or left the university.