Tura MP Saleng Sangma has written to Union Minister of Education Dharmendra Pradhan requesting immediate intervention in addressing grievances at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU).
According to Sangma, the wellbeing and educational environment in the university has been severely impacted by a series of actions under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor PS Shukla.
“Recent communications from the North-Eastern Hill University Teachers’ Association (NEHUTA) and the Meghalaya Tribal Teachers’ Association (MeTTA) highlight numerous issues that require your esteemed office’s intervention to restore NEHU’s academic and administrative integrity,” he stated.
As outlined by NEHUTA and MeTTA, the university community has faced growing concerns over the administration’s disregard for transparent and inclusive governance, the MP added.
According to Sangma the key issues that require immediate attention are the Vice-Chancellor’s appointment of “under qualified” individuals to critical administrative positions, overlooking experienced local tribal candidates in the process, which has eroded trust in the institution’s commitment to regional representation and excellence.
He also pointed out that the university’s reputation suffered due to what he described as disorganised handling of major national examinations, leading to substantial public criticism. “This mismanagement reflects poorly on NEHU’s capabilities and has potential long-term repercussions,” he stated.
He also pointed out that career growth for senior professors has been stalled affecting morale and the university’s research output.
“By denying these professionals their due promotions, the administration has discouraged advancement in teaching and research,” Sangma said.
