Resolution at Tezpur University: Education Ministry Team Leaves Amid Protests

Tezpur, A high-level team from the Ministry of Education, previously confined at Assam’s Tezpur University due to student protests demanding the removal of the vice-chancellor over alleged financial irregularities, was finally allowed to leave on Saturday evening.

The three-member delegation, led by UGC Chairman Vineet Joshi and accompanied by local police and civil administration officials, faced a blockade at the university's main gate until nearly midnight. The team had come to engage with students, faculty, and staff but was prevented from entering by protesters.

Registrar in-charge, Chandan Goswami, confirmed that the team could exit once a written assurance was provided to the agitators. This assurance stated that current VC Shambu Nath Singh would not officiate until an inquiry into the allegations was completed, and that Jaya Chakraborty, whom Singh had named as pro-VC, would not assume charge.

Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya, the senior-most faculty member, will serve as the acting VC during this period.

Following the acceptance of their core demands, students cleared the blockade, allowing the ministry delegation to depart just before midnight. Academic activities at the university had been suspended since November 29, as students insisted on a clear written assurance regarding Singh’s removal.

Police had increased their presence at the gate as protesters voiced their dissent against the vice-chancellor. Joshi remarked that they aimed to understand the concerns of students, teachers, and staff, emphasizing that the ministry is processing the gathered information and will take appropriate action.

The Tezpur University United Forum, which led the protests, expressed frustration over the lack of a concrete resolution after 79 days of peaceful demonstrations and vowed to continue their agitation until they receive a satisfactory written response.

As tensions persisted, all end-term examinations were canceled, and both the Tezpur University Teachers' Association and Non-Teaching Employees' Association supported the strike. The vice-chancellor had distanced himself from the campus following heated exchanges with students in September.

In a notable turn of events, Bhattacharyya assumed the role of acting vice-chancellor on Friday, citing university regulations. The previous vice-chancellor had also attempted to convene a virtual meeting of the Board of Management and appointed Joya Chakraborty as pro-VC, a position she later declined.

The situation at Tezpur University has been fraught with tension since mid-September, with students accusing the VC of failing to show respect for local cultural figures during a period of mourning. Additionally, staff members have protested against alleged fiscal mismanagement and environmental concerns under Singh's administration.