NEHU Crisis Deepens
By Erwin K Syiem Sutnga
The unfolding crisis at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) has reached a critical stage, with the indefinite hunger strike led by the NEHU Students’ Union (NEHUSU) and the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) NEHU unit now in its second week. The students are resolute in their demand for the resignation of Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla, attributing his leadership to the decline in NEHU’s standards and a pattern of administrative mismanagement.
In response to this escalating situation, the Union Education Ministry recently announced its intent to mediate and resolve the crisis. This intervention has raised concerns among the university community, who worry that an external resolution might not address the underlying grievances related to NEHU’s regional and cultural representation. Meanwhile, the Meghalaya High Court has issued a specific timeline, requiring the NEHU administration to engage in constructive dialogue with the protesting students and submit a comprehensive report on measures taken by November 20. This deadline adds a layer of urgency, setting expectations for a concrete resolution to be in place within days.
Recognitions Amidst the Unrest
Ironically, NEHU’s leadership crisis is juxtaposed with recent academic achievements that showcase the institution’s potential. On November 5, 2024, two NEHU scientists—Prof. Timir Tripathi from the Department of Zoology and Dr. Shruti Shukla from the Department of Nanotechnology—were honoured by Meghalaya’s Governor after being recognized among the top 2 percent of scientists globally, according to a Stanford University ranking. This recognition underscores NEHU’s capacity for excellence even as administrative controversies threaten its standing and reputation.
Mounting Discontent with the Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership
The current crisis has deep roots, stemming from Prof. Shukla’s appointment in 2021, a decision that bypassed a local candidate, Prof. S.M. Sungoh, and sparked immediate concerns among stakeholders. The NEHU Teachers’ Association (NEHUTA) and various student and staff groups have since accused Prof. Shukla of favoring non-local appointments and failing to consult adequately on key policies, including the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which was implemented with limited input from university stakeholders.
Critics argue that the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership has led to a dramatic decline in NEHU’s national ranking, from 59 in 2021 to 136 in 2024, a drop attributed to what many see as ineffective and dismissive management practices. Moreover, Prof. Shukla’s continued absence from campus during this period of unrest has further deepened mistrust, with students and faculty feeling that his distance reflects a disregard for the University’s well-being.
Legal Mandates and Controversial Appointments
Adding to the complexity, the Executive Council recently held an online meeting to appoint two new Pro-Vice-Chancellors. This decision has been met with skepticism, as stakeholders question the legality of holding such a significant meeting virtually. NEHU’s Act and Statutes typically mandate that Executive Council meetings for crucial decisions, such as appointments, be conducted in person to ensure transparency and adherence to governance protocols. The move to make these appointments online, without clear statutory authorization, may constitute a procedural violation, further eroding trust in the current administration.
The Meghalaya High Court’s intervention on November 8, mandating a November 20 deadline for administrative response, places additional pressure on Prof. Shukla’s administration. The court order emphasizes the need for “meaningful dialogue” with student leaders and requires a thorough report on the actions taken to address the issues raised by the university community.
Statutory Guidelines:The Role of NEHU’s Governance Framework
The NEHU Act, Statutes, and Ordinances provide clear guidelines for the university’s governance. Section 10 of the NEHU Act describes the Vice-Chancellor’s role as the primary executive and academic officer, charged with maintaining discipline and overseeing university operations. Section 8 of the Act grants the Visitor (the President of India) the power to remove the Vice-Chancellor if it is determined that their actions are detrimental to the university’s interests or if they fail to fulfill their duties effectively.
Furthermore, Statute 12 assigns the Executive Council oversight of NEHU’s affairs, highlighting the importance of transparent and participatory decision-making processes for the university’s well-being. These governance protocols make it clear that NEHU’s leadership must be responsive and engage constructively with stakeholders to maintain institutional integrity.
A Path Forward:The Call for Resignation
The growing intensity of the hunger strike, combined with legal mandates and public scrutiny, has left NEHU at a decisive crossroad. The current Vice-Chancellor’s tenure has led to a climate of division and dissatisfaction, raising questions about his ability to restore unity and trust. In light of the High Court’s mandate and the mounting calls for change, it appears that genuine dialogue and a path toward resolution may only be possible if Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla acknowledges that his position has become untenable. His immediate resignation could create an opening for meaningful reform and allow NEHU to appoint a leader whose vision aligns with the institution’s unique cultural, academic, and regional values.
The coming days are crucial for NEHU. As the November 20 deadline approaches, stakeholders across the university—students, faculty, alumni, and regional leaders—must advocate for governance reforms and work toward appointing a Vice-Chancellor who embodies the aspirations of Meghalaya and the Northeast.