Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has expressed concern over the prevailing situation at the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) but said that the State government has limited authority to directly intervene in the crisis.
He pointed out the complexities surrounding NEHU’s administrative framework, highlighting that it is an autonomous institution functioning directly under the Ministry of Education, Government of India.
“Appointments of the Chancellor and other key positions are done at the President’s level. So all these complications make it difficult for the state government to openly intervene in the day-to-day functioning,” he said.
While the state government lacks the statutory power to act decisively in the ongoing issues at NEHU, Sangma said that the government has been informally engaging with various stakeholders—including students, faculty members, and central government authorities.
“I have personally met the students—not as the Chief Minister, but as a concerned citizen and leader. We are engaging, we are talking to people. I’ve also been in touch with the Union Education Minister and have requested the Centre to find a resolution,” he added.
The Chief Minister reiterated his appeal for unity and constructive dialogue among all parties involved, stressing that the interests of the students must remain paramount.
“We may not be the competent authority to directly intervene, but we are doing everything we can to ensure that NEHU functions smoothly. It’s time we come together to resolve this issue in the larger interest of the student community,” he concluded.
The ongoing turmoil at the varsity was sparked by allegations against Shukla for administrative inefficiencies and triggered significant unrest within the university community who are demanding administrative reforms and transparency.
