Shillong, Jan 12:Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui today said that North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) is running on “auto-pilot mode” as the university has been functioning without a Vice-Chancellor for over 400 days.
The minister made the statement after representatives of four NEHU-based groups met him and briefed him about the ongoing situation at the university.
Rymbui said NEHU has been severely affected due to the prolonged absence of VC Prof PS Shukla, making it difficult to manage day-to-day operations. He pointed out that important work such as declaring examination results and paying staff salaries has been delayed.
He explained that in the absence of a VC, the Pro VC is expected to take charge. The Prov VC of the Shillong campus resigned last month, with only Prof FK Marak from NEHU Tura still in post. However, she is unwilling to come to Shillong, further complicating the situation.
Rymbui said he has directed officials to hold a meeting with Marak to address the issue.
Rymbui also informed that he has written to the Union Education Minister and will again seek a meeting to find a permanent solution. He opined that the ministry is taking the matter seriously, which is why an inquiry committee was formed. However, although the committee has submitted its report, its findings have not yet been made public.
