Assam: Professor Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya takes over as Tezpur University's acting VC amidst protests

In a significant development, Professor Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya has taken over as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Tezpur University, following a 75-day-long protest movement by students, teachers, and staff against the previous Vice-Chancellor, Shambhu Nath Singh.

The protests were sparked by Singh's decision to appoint Professor Jaya Chakraborty as Pro-Vice-Chancellor, which was seen as an attempt to consolidate power and undermine the university's autonomy. The protesters had demanded Singh's removal, citing irregularities and disregard for university norms.

In a surprising turn of events, Professor Chakraborty refused to accept the Pro-Vice-Chancellor position, citing the ongoing protests and the university's statutes. Subsequently, Professor Bhattacharyya, being the senior-most professor, was appointed as the Acting Vice-Chancellor in accordance with the Tezpur University Act, 1993.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently weighed in on the Tezpur University controversy, revealing he had a conversation with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on December 3. Sarma had urged Pradhan to expedite the appointment of a Pro-Vice Chancellor to stabilize the academic environment, pending a fair investigation into the Vice Chancellor's actions. He expressed optimism that the Centre would act swiftly to resolve the issue.

The development has brought a sense of relief to the university community, which had been rocked by the protests and allegations of mismanagement against the previous administration. The new leadership is expected to bring stability and normalcy to the university, and address the concerns of the students, teachers, and staff.

Also Read: Tezpur University Shut for Sixth Day as Students, Faculty Revolt Against Alleged “Backdoor” Pro-VC Appointment