NEHU VC Prof. Shukla Extends Leave Amid Ongoing Inquiry

VC had earlier requested the ministry to ensure adequate security to facilitate his return to the campus, initially planned for December 2.

North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Vice-Chancellor Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla has decided to extend his leave by an additional 15 days, coinciding with the Education Ministry’s extension of the inquiry committee’s duration for the same period.

Prof. Shukla, addressing the decision, stated, “Morally, it would not be appropriate for me to return while the Education Ministry has granted a 15-day extension to the inquiry committee. Therefore, I have decided to extend my leave until December 14.”

The inquiry committee, led by a former Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), was formed to investigate allegations leveled against Prof. Shukla by the NEHU Teachers Association (NEHUTA) and students. The Vice-Chancellor initially went on leave on November 15, citing family reasons, just hours after the committee was announced.

Prof. Shukla had earlier requested the Central Government to ensure adequate security to facilitate his return to the campus, initially planned for December 2.

Speaking to Northeast Live, NEHUTA Vice President Prasenjit Biswas reiterated their demand for Prof. Shukla’s removal. He stated, “VC Shukla is no longer acceptable to many organizations from the state and the entire NEHU community. Some organizations have already written to the President of India, seeking strong intervention. The whole university stands united on this matter.”

Commenting on the current academic situation, Biswas added, “The academic atmosphere is somewhat problematic and at a standstill. A final solution is yet to emerge. We hope and expect that the inquiry committee, led by important members, will bring the rightful resolution. When the committee visited NEHU, they gathered extensive data, opinions, and insights from the university community.”

He criticised Prof. Shukla’s leadership, stating, “The VC must have realised that the whole university does not want him. His three years in this university have brought neither growth nor development. Instead, his tenure has contributed to the deepening of this crisis. He has no business causing trouble in the university.”

The NEHU community, including teachers and students, has accused the VC of failing to foster academic growth and development during his tenure.

With the inquiry still ongoing, all eyes are now on the committee’s findings and the next steps to address the crisis at NEHU.

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