Tensions at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong have intensified as students, joined by faculty associations, demand the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Prof Prabha Shankar Shukla, Registrar Omkar Singh, and Deputy Registrar Amit Gupta.
Alleging administrative mismanagement and abuse of power, students launched an indefinite hunger strike, locked campus gates, and burned effigies of top officials. This wave of protests took a violent turn on Saturday night when protesters allegedly vandalized the vice-chancellor’s residence, damaging his vehicle and causing minor injuries. In response, Prof Shukla has relocated to an undisclosed location and held a recent Executive Council meeting remotely for safety. An FIR has been filed by NEHU’s registrar-in-charge against unknown individuals involved in the alleged attack.
The NEHU Teachers' Association (NEHUTA) Vice-President, Prof Prasanjit Biswas, emphasized the urgency of a resolution, expressing concern over the health of hunger-striking students, many of whom have fallen ill. Prof Biswas voiced optimism regarding Chief Minister Conrad Sangma’s recent discussions with the union education minister, stating that NEHU requires “competent and qualified leaders” to prevent further unrest. He assured students and faculty of plans to compensate for lost academic time once the situation stabilizes.
The NEHU Students' Union (NEHUSU), backed by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU) NEHU Unit, leads the protests, calling for new leadership and the appointment of pro-vice-chancellors at NEHU’s Shillong and Tura campuses. Faculty organizations, including NEHUTA and the Meghalaya Tribal Teachers' Association (MeTTA), have also expressed support for the students, condemning the current administration and pressing for greater transparency and accountability within the university.
As the situation continues, NEHU’s campus remains a focal point of unrest, with both students and faculty pushing for changes in leadership to restore faith in the institution.