NEHU acting VC sets up inquiry committee, assures to restore normalcy

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 18, 2024

On taking charge of office, Vice Chancellor Incharge of North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Prof Nirmalemdu Saha has constituted an Inquiry Committee into the alleged mismanagement and administrative failures within the University that led to the prevailing crisis, its report of which will be submitted to the two-member committee established recently by the Ministry of Education.

Saha has also appealed to the agitating students to call off their  indefinite hunger protest, which has been going on for the past 14 days.

In a statement, Saha said, “To address the core concerns, an Inquiry Committee has been constituted comprising representatives from all major stakeholders. The committee is rigorously working to complete its due process, and its findings will be submitted to the committee established by the Ministry of Education. I appreciate the dedication and efforts of all members involved in this process and urge everyone to support their work in the spirit of transparency and accountability.”

“I firmly believe that the students’ well-being is our paramount concern. As a university, we exist to nurture and empower our students, and I assure you that every decision taken during this time will prioritize their interests. 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,” he added.

He said that the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, has been witnessing a period of unrest over the past weeks. 

“As the Vice-Chancellor 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,” he assured.

Upon taking charge, Saha has taken immediate priority on the well-being of students, who are the heart and soul of NEHU. 

“I have personally interacted with the students on several occasions, expressing deep concern for their health and well-being, especially in light of the hunger strike. 

Despite my best efforts to convince them to call off their strike, I remain hopeful that through dialogue and mutual understanding, a resolution can soon be reached,” he said while adding that he has 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, Saha informed that he has conducted extensive meetings with various stakeholders, including representatives of the NEHU Students’ Union (NEHUSU), the NEHU Non-Teaching Staff Association (NEHUNSA), and the 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.

“We remain committed to doing everything in our power to ensure that students do not suffer and that their education and future are safeguarded. Let us work together towards a brighter and more united NEHU,” he asserted further.