Tezpur University Faces Leadership Crisis: Professor Takes Charge
Tezpur University is facing a significant leadership crisis, leading to a complete shutdown of the university for a week. In response to the ongoing turmoil, Dhruba Bhattacharyya, the senior-most faculty member, has taken charge as the acting vice-chancellor (VC) effective Thursday night. He cited provisions within the Tezpur University Act of 1993 as the basis for his decision.
Background of the Crisis
The move comes after a series of events that heightened tensions on campus. VC Shambhu Nath Singh, who has been absent from the university for an extended period, convened a board of management meeting in hybrid mode. During this meeting, mass communications professor Joya Chakraborty was appointed as pro-VC.
However, Chakraborty declined the position, and no official notification was issued. This decision by the management sparked outrage among students and faculty, who viewed it as arbitrary and lacking proper consultation. Student groups organized marches and protests, demanding the withdrawal of the appointment and the removal of Shambu N Singh.
Professor Bhattacharyya's Actions
Professor Bhattacharyya, a professor of computer science and engineering, has informed the Ministry of Education about his assumption of the acting VC role. He emphasized that his immediate priority is to restore normalcy to the university and conduct the stalled end-term exams, which are scheduled to begin on December 8.
Legal Justification
Statute 2(6) of the Tezpur University Act, 1993 outlines the protocol for filling the VC's office if it becomes vacant due to death, resignation, or inability to perform duties. The statute states that the pro-VC should assume the role. If the pro-VC is unavailable, the senior-most professor is to perform the duties until a new VC is appointed or the incumbent returns.
Student and Faculty Grievances
The agitation, spearheaded by the Tezpur University United Forum, began on November 29 and has effectively paralyzed all academic and administrative activities at the university. Students and faculty members are accusing VC Singh of corruption and mismanagement.
Key Issues:
- Shutdown: Tezpur University has been shut down for a week due to ongoing protests.
- Acting VC: Dhruba Bhattacharyya has assumed the role of acting VC.
- Student Demands: Students are calling for the removal of VC Shambhu Nath Singh and the withdrawal of Joya Chakraborty's pro-VC appointment.
- Corruption Allegations: Students and faculty accuse Singh of corruption and mismanagement.
