Education Ministry Team Allowed to Depart Assam University Following Student Protest Resolution

A team from the Education Ministry was permitted to leave Tezpur University after students received written assurances regarding the vice-chancellor's status amid protests over financial irregularities.

A Ministry of Education team was confined at Assam's Tezpur University by students demanding the vice-chancellor's removal over alleged financial misconduct. The team, led by UGC Chairman Vineet Joshi, was allowed to leave late Saturday after the university provided a written assurance. The assurance stated that VC Shambu Nath Singh would not officiate until an inquiry is completed.

Protests and Demands at Tezpur University

The students' blockade at the main gate was lifted just before midnight. This followed the ministry team's acceptance of the protesters' demands. The students had been protesting since November 29, halting all academic activities. They insisted on a written guarantee for Singh's removal before ending their protest.

Police were stationed at the gate as students chanted slogans against the vice-chancellor. Registrar Chandan Goswami confirmed that Jaya Chakraborty, appointed as pro-VC by Singh, would not assume the role. Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya, the senior-most faculty member, will act as VC in the interim.

University Community's Response

The Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF) expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of resolution despite 79 days of peaceful protest. They stated that systemic indifference forced them to adopt a firmer stance. The forum vowed to continue their agitation until a satisfactory written response is received.

End-term exams have been cancelled, with support from the Tezpur University Teachers Association (TUTA) and Non-Teaching Employees Association (TUNTEA). The vice-chancellor had been absent from campus since a confrontation with students on September 22.

Background and Developments

The situation has been tense since mid-September due to allegations against Singh and university authorities. Students accused them of disrespecting singer Zubeen Garg during state mourning for his death. Besides financial issues, staffers protested against alleged deforestation under Singh's administration.

In a significant development, Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya assumed charge as acting VC on Friday, citing university laws. This followed Singh's virtual Board of Management meeting on Thursday, where he appointed Joya Chakraborty as pro-VC, a position she declined.

Joshi mentioned that two fact-finding inquiries had been conducted. "We came here to meet the students, teachers, staff members and understand their view of the recent developments. We had a fruitful discussion with them. They have given us their feedback," he said.

The ministry is reviewing all information and will take appropriate action. "Based on these, the central government will take the matter forward. Whatever decision we take, I am sure it will be in interest of the university," Joshi added.

With inputs from PTI