The Vice-Chancellor in charge of North Eastern Hill University (Incharge), Prof. Nirmalendu Saha, informed that the stakeholders’ internal enquiry committee comprising students and faculty will submit its report on allegations of mismanagement and administrative lapses within the university by this evening. This report will subsequently be forwarded to the two-member panel constituted by the Union Education Ministry for further investigation.
Prof. Saha also indicated that the Ministry-appointed committee is likely to visit NEHU by next week. Speaking to the media, he assured that every effort is being made to restore normalcy in the university. He said, “I am strictly following the Ministry’s directives and working closely with the enquiry committee. We are collecting relevant documents, and by today, we aim to submit the report. Once submitted, the committee will likely visit us and interact with all stakeholders to address grievances with proper evidence.”
The Vice-Chancellor (Incharge) emphasized the need for students to temporarily suspend their hunger strike, explaining that it could influence the fairness of the enquiry process. He remarked, “If the agitation continues during the committee’s visit, it could be perceived as undue pressure. We are trying to convince the students’ union to give the enquiry process a fair chance.”
Acknowledging the students’ demands, Prof. Saha shared that the hunger strike persists largely due to calls for the resignation of Professor Prabha Shankar Shukla. He added that while some students are cooperating, many remain firm in their stance.
Prof. Saha also highlighted the university’s proactive measures to support the striking students. “We have arranged 24/7 medical support, including an ambulance, two doctors, and nurses, to monitor the students. Every day, one or two students require hospitalization due to deteriorating health, and we are ensuring they receive the necessary treatment,” he stated.
Regarding the timeline of the Ministry-appointed panel’s visit, he said it might take place early next week if not this weekend. The Vice-Chancellor reiterated his commitment to cooperating fully with the enquiry process and ensuring a resolution for the welfare of the university.