VC in-charge holds talks with all dissenting stakeholders
Shillong, Nov 18: The North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) has constituted a committee to inquire into alleged mismanagement and administrative failures of the university authorities leading to the prevailing crisis.
The committee constituted by the vice-chancellor in-charge Prof Nirmalendu Saha will submit its report to the two-member committee constituted by the Union Ministry of Education.
Announcing formation of the committee consisting of representatives of all major stakeholders, Prof Saha made an appeal to the students to end their indefinite hunger strike and help restore normal functioning of the central university.
“I appeal to all members of the NEHU community to come together, set aside differences, and focus on the collective goal of building a harmonious and thriving academic environment,” said Prof Saha, who took over as VC in-charge recently.
The students led by NEHU Students’ Union (NEHUSU) and Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) NEHU Unit have been staging the hunger strike protest for the past 14 days and are adamant on their demand for removal of the vice-chancellor Prof PS Shukla, who went on a prolonged leave following the crisis.
Expressing his concern for the students, the VC in-charge said, “I firmly believe that the students’ well-being is our paramount concern.”
Admitting the unrest witnessed by NEHU, he said, “As VC in-charge, I would like to address the university community and assure everyone that we are committed to restoring peace, normalcy, and a conducive environment for learning and development.”
The VC also expressed concern over the health condition of the protesting students. “I have interacted with the students on several occasions, expressing deep concern for their health and well-being.”
He said he had been in constant communication with the medical team and doctors monitoring the students on hunger strike.
“Their health is my greatest worry, and I fervently pray that no serious medical issues arise,” he stated.
Further, Prof Saha said he had conducted extensive meetings with various stakeholders, including representatives of NEHUSU, NEHU Non-Teaching Staff Association (NEHUNSA), and NEHU Teachers’ Association (NEHUTA).
“These discussions have been both constructive and collaborative, and I am pleased to share that NEHUNSA has agreed to allow certain essential administrative sections to resume operations. This critical step ensures that scholarships are processed and that academic activities continue without disruption,” he said.
