Assam: Tezpur University Senior Professor assumes charge as Acting VC

Guwahati: Senior Professor Dr. Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya formally assumed charge as the Acting Vice Chancellor of Tezpur University on Thursday night, stepping into the role at a time when the institution is witnessing intense protests, administrative confusion, and growing mistrust among students and faculty.

A New Interim Leadership at a Critical Moment

Dr. Bhattacharyya, a highly respected academic from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, said after taking charge that his first priority would be the well-being of students and the restoration of a healthy academic atmosphere.

“All decisions will be taken and shared in a proper and transparent manner,” he assured. He added that the university community must work together to “make Tezpur University one of the most thoughtful and respected institutions in India.”

Controversy Over Alleged Pro-Vice Chancellor Appointment

Campus unrest deepened earlier this week after unverified reports circulated regarding the alleged appointment of Prof. Dr. Joya Chakraborty as the Pro-Vice Chancellor.

Although no official notification has been issued, the rumor sparked anger among students and faculty, who alleged that the decision was “arbitrary,” taken without consultation, and reflective of administrative opacity.

This triggered a series of protests, with student bodies claiming that the administration had lost their trust.

Legal Basis for Dr. Bhattacharyya’s Appointment

The university issued a detailed clarification citing Statute 2(6) of the Tezpur University Act, 1993, which mandates that in the absence of a Vice Chancellor, the senior-most professor must take charge, provided no Pro-Vice Chancellor is available.

The administration stated that the prolonged absence of the Vice Chancellor made it legally necessary for Dr. Bhattacharyya to assume responsibilities to ensure continuity in governance.

The notice further referenced Section 40 of the same Act, which protects university officials acting in good faith, particularly during phases of campus instability.

Student Protests Continue Into the Night

Despite the formal explanation, protests continued on Thursday night. Student groups held marches, burned tyres, and raised slogans demanding:

• Withdrawal of the alleged Pro-VC decision, and
• Removal of Vice Chancellor Prof. Shambhu Nath Singh.

Students said they felt disconnected and unheard, and called for a transparent, consultative, and accountable administration.

Hopes for Calm Under a Respected Academic

Many faculty members and students believe that Dr. Bhattacharyya’s calm demeanor and respected standing may help stabilize the campus, which has seen several days of academic shutdown.

However, with protests showing no signs of slowing, the new Acting Vice Chancellor faces an immediate challenge: rebuilding trust and steering the university back to normalcy.