Tezpur University crisis: Academic activities shut down over alleged irregularities, VC absent

Guwahati: Tezpur University, a central university established under an Act of Parliament in 1994 as one of the outcomes of the Assam Accord, has been witnessing ongoing student protests and dharnas over alleged irregularities and administrative lapses.

Students have been protesting since mid-September, citing corruption and financial irregularities within the university.

The situation escalated when academic activities were suspended indefinitely from November 29, bringing normal operations on campus to a standstill.

The Vice-Chancellor has reportedly been absent from the university campus for nearly two months, raising concerns among students and the public.

Protesters claim that the absence of the Vice-Chancellor has worsened the impasse, as no concrete steps have been taken to resolve the issues. Several allegations regarding irregularities and misuse of authority have surfaced in the public domain, intensifying student unrest.

Observers note that prolonged absence of the Vice-Chancellor from campus has created doubts about administrative accountability, with questions being raised about whether the absence is officially sanctioned.

Students have emphasized that the Vice-Chancellor cannot evade responsibility by remaining away from the university.

Calls have been made for the government to ensure that the educational environment at Tezpur University is restored and that appointments of Vice-Chancellors in northeastern universities are made with transparency, avoiding any extraneous considerations.

In a related suggestion, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reportedly recommended appointing a Pro Vice-Chancellor temporarily to manage affairs.

Stakeholders have argued that restoring the university’s prestige requires the appointment of a full-time Vice-Chancellor rather than interim measures.

The ongoing protests reflect the students’ demand for accountability and the urgent need to bring normalcy back to the campus.