Tezpur University Protests Continue Amidst Demands for VC's Removal
Protests at Tezpur University
Tezpur, Dec 8: Protesters at Tezpur University have declared their intention to maintain a shutdown of the institution, which has been the site of demonstrations since mid-September. The protests are aimed at addressing alleged misconduct by Vice Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh, and will persist until an official communication regarding his removal is received from the central government.
The situation escalated over the weekend, with a high-profile delegation from the Union Education Ministry, led by Secretary Vineet Joshi, unable to leave the campus for over three hours due to the protests.
The delegation was finally permitted to exit after receiving a written assurance from Saumya Gupta, the Joint Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, stating that VC Singh would not oversee the university until a thorough inquiry into the allegations against him is completed.
The Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF), which includes students, faculty, and non-teaching staff, has been vocal about their grievances against the VC, citing corruption and other irregularities. They have demanded his removal and a formal investigation into his actions.
Despite 79 days of peaceful protests, the TUUF expressed frustration over the lack of a definitive resolution or actionable commitments regarding the VC's removal.
In a statement, the TUUF announced a complete non-compliance and non-cooperation stance until a formal agreement is received. They remain steadfast in their demands, awaiting a formal confirmation from the Ministry of Education.
While the TUUF acknowledged an informal communication from the Ministry indicating that an inquiry would be initiated, they emphasized that protests would continue until an official notification is issued.
Since November 29, students have enforced a total shutdown of all university activities, including academic functions, leading to the cancellation of end-term examinations.
The handwritten assurance from the Ministry, which allowed the delegation to leave, noted that there were several governance issues concerning the VC.
Gupta's assurance stated that the Ministry is committed to conducting a strict and timely inquiry against Singh, and he will not administer the university during this period.
The three-member team from the Ministry, which included UGC acting Chairman Joshi, faced initial resistance from protesters blocking the main entrance. Police reinforcements were deployed to manage the situation.
Joshi addressed reporters, stating that the Ministry is processing the feedback received from the university community and will take appropriate action based on the findings of two prior inquiries. He assured that any decisions made would prioritize the university's best interests.