Assam's Tezpur University shutdown hits sixth day as students demand removal of VC

Tezpur University in Assam remains under complete lockdown on its sixth consecutive day, with students, teachers, and non-teaching staff united in their demand for the immediate removal of Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh. The protests, which escalated from mid-September, have now paralyzed all academic activities, forcing the cancellation of end-term examinations and halting administrative functions. This central university in Sonitpur district, known for its contributions to higher education, faces an unprecedented crisis that threatens students' academic futures.​

The agitation began over perceived administrative insensitivity during state mourning for cultural icon Zubeen Garg but quickly expanded to serious allegations of financial irregularities worth over Rs 14 crore, including tender manipulation and inflated quotations. VC Singh has been absent from campus for over 74 days, reportedly attending external events while the institution grinds to a halt, fueling outrage among stakeholders. For Students: Aathi.com readers preparing for competitive exams or higher studies, this shutdown underscores the importance of stable university governance—explore more campus news and career guidance at Studentsaathi.com.​

Core Demands and United Front Against VC

The Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF), backed by the Teachers' Association (TUTA) and Non-Teaching Employees' Association, insists on the VC's suspension pending inquiry, release of fact-finding reports from the Governor's committee and Union Ministry of Education, and appointment of an acting vice-chancellor. Protesters rejected Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's proposal for a pro-VC, viewing it as a sidestep of their primary demand for accountability. "Our protest continued peacefully for 70 days, but patience has limits," stated TUTA President Kusum Kumar Bania, highlighting the administrative standstill.​

Recent developments include the resignation of the finance officer and the senior-most faculty, Prof. Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya, assuming suo motu charge as acting VC amid turmoil. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has urged a high-level probe by the Prime Minister, criticizing the CM's stance and calling for urgent intervention to protect students. This unified fraternity—over 76 days of dharna—demonstrates remarkable restraint while pressing for a high court judge-led inquiry into all "omissions and commissions."​

Academic Fallout and Student Hardships

End-term exams scheduled from December 4 stand postponed indefinitely, disrupting thousands of students' preparation for placements, PG entrances, and research milestones. The main gate remains barricaded, with round-the-clock sit-ins preventing any normalcy, as the absence of key leadership cripples decision-making—the Executive Council cannot act without the VC. Non-teaching staff face salary delays and operational chaos, compounding the crisis.​

For aspiring engineers, researchers, and civil service candidates relying on Tezpur's programs, this impasse delays transcripts and recommendations essential for opportunities like GATE, NET, or UPSC. StudentsAathi.com advises affected peers to document impacts and connect with forums for collective advocacy—visit our exam updates section for resilience tips during institutional disruptions.​

Government Response and Path Forward

While the CM suggested a pro-VC for stability, protesters see it as inadequate without VC suspension first. Rajya Sabha MP demands central intervention, citing vendor collusion evidence. The forum pledges indefinite shutdown until transparency is ensured, warning of broader academic setbacks.​

As protests intensify into day seven, national attention grows—will Delhi act to safeguard this key northeastern institution? StudentsAathi.com will track resolutions, offering support resources for impacted learners nationwide. Stay informed for career safeguards amid such upheavals.