By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 4: The NEHUSU and the KSU’s NEHU unit on Saturday sought Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s immediate intervention for action on the two-member committee’s inquiry report regarding alleged mismanagement and administrative failures in the university.
In a letter addressed to Pradhan, NEHUSU general secretary Toniho Kharsati said in reference to the Ministry’s order dated November 14 2024, the two-member committee visited the university where the student bodies submitted all relevant documents and evidence against Vice Chancellor Prof PS Shukla.
Stating that the competent authority granted a 15-day extension to finalise the report as per the Chairman of the Inquiry Committee’s letter dated November 28, 2024, the NEHUSU general secretary said it is now January 4, 2025 but they are yet to receive any notification or update regarding the Committee’s report. “In light of the significant concerns raised and the urgency of the matter, we respectfully request you to take immediate action and provide a formal response to the Committee’s findings at the earliest possible date. Your timely intervention in this matter is of utmost importance to address the grievances and restore confidence in the governance of NEHU,” Kharsati said.
He also urged Pradhan to expedite a response to the committee’s report and take prompt action to address the issues identified.
The NEHUSU general secretary said they would like to demand the immediate removal of Prof Shukla from the position of VC.
“His (Prof Shukla) administration has been marked by inadequate and ineffective management, which has severely undermined the credibility and integrity of NEHU’s governance. Further extending his tenure will only exacerbate these issues,” Kharsati stated.
He further stated that as representatives of the student community, they wish to convey their unanimous stance that they will not cooperate with any directives issued by Prof Shukla, as he has lost all trust and confidence of the students.
According to him, Prof Shukla’s continued presence as Vice-Chancellor is detrimental to the welfare of the university.
Kharsati said the student organisations have resolved that Prof Shukla shall not be permitted to enter the university premises, as his leadership has proven to be counter-productive and harmful to the institution’s progress.
“In light of these grave concerns, we respectfully request your urgent intervention to restore the integrity and proper functioning of NEHU. We trust that you will address this matter with the seriousness and urgency it demands,” the letter further read.