Tensions prevail at Shillong's Northeastern Hill University as students announce indefinite hunger strike

Tensions are prevailing at Northeastern Hill University (NEHU) at Meghalaya's capital Shillong as students have launched an indefinite hunger strike outside the Vice Chancellor’s office, demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla.

The hunger strike, led by the NEHU Students' Union (NEHUSU) and the Khasi Students' Union (KSU) NEHU Unit, accuses the Vice Chancellor of “misuse of power” and mismanagement.

Shukla addressed the concerns raised by the NEHU Students' Union (NEHUSU) in their recent memorandum.

Regarding the demand for the removal of the Registrar, Deputy Registrar (Academics), Officer on Special Duty (Director, College Development Council), and Guest House In-charge, Shukla stated that these decisions cannot be made unilaterally.

"The removal of the Registrar, Deputy Registrar (Academics) cannot be executed based on unilateral decisions or personal discretion. Their roles and continuity in service are governed by due processes, not by arbitrary decisions from any single authority, including the Vice-Chancellor."

Shukla said, "If the government suspects any irregularities, it may consider forming an inquiry committee to examine the matter. However, as of now, there has been no communication from the Ministry or the President's office to the Vice-Chancellor's office indicating such an action."

He added, "I would like to inform you that the University has formally written to the Ministry for further clarification on this matter and is awaiting their response. I will write to the Ministry again, and if there is no response within December 2024, I will appoint two Pro-Vice-Chancellors for Shillong and Tura Campuses from the local community."