Urgent: NEHU VC Shukla’s Passionate Plea for Open Dialogue with Agitated Students in Meghalaya

Amidst escalating protests at the North-Eastern Hills University (NEHU), Vice Chancellor Professor Prabha Shankar Shukla has called for an end to the student-led hunger strike, urging open dialogue. Despite his appeal, the students remain resolute in their demand for his resignation. The protest, now in its fifth day as of November 10, has disrupted university operations affecting about 5,000 students, with several participants requiring hospitalization due to the hunger strike.

Citing concerns for both student welfare and the broader university community, VC Shukla reaffirmed his openness to discussions, stressing his commitment to fairly addressing student grievances. However, he revealed he has been unable to access the university, being restricted to his residence due to the lockdown imposed since November 6.

The students’ stance stems from unaddressed demands by the North-Eastern Hill University Students’ Union (NEHUSU), which includes the dismissal of the Registrar and Deputy Registrar, appointing a Pro Vice-Chancellor for the Tura campus, and conducting student elections promptly.

Faculty members have sought intervention from Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar, who is now involved in the crisis resolution process. The North Eastern Hill University Teachers’ Association (NEHUTA), represented by President Prof. Lakhon Kma, briefed the Governor about the ongoing situation, expressing the need for a resolution.

Governor Vijayashankar has expressed his concerns, emphasizing that students should prioritize their academic responsibilities over agitation. In a bid to resolve the stalemate, the Governor has urged all university stakeholders, including faculty and staff, to contribute suggestions for a viable resolution.

This prolonged unrest underscores an urgent call for dialogue and collaboration among the university’s stakeholders to restore normalcy and address the core issues fueling the student-led protest.

Original Story https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalayas-nehu-vc-shukla-renews-appeal-for-open-dialogue-with-agitating-students-1118464-2024-11-10?utm_source=rssfeed
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2024-11-10 11:26:00