Tezpur University VC fiscal irregularities compulsory leave student protest at campus

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has ordered Tezpur University Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh to go on leave and directed an enquiry panel to probe several allegations against him, according to officials.

The university has been witnessing protests since mid-September against irregularities allegedly committed by Mr. Singh. The protesters held a 24-hour hunger strike on Monday ( December 29, 2025) on the completion of 100 days of their agitation.

“A three-member enquiry panel has been set up to probe all matters related to the ongoing situation in Tezpur University, including allegations levelled against the Vice-Chancellor. The VC shall recuse himself from all duties and proceed on leave immediately and shall remain on leave till completion of the enquiry,” a senior MoE official said.

The enquiry panel has been asked to submit its report within a maximum of three months.

Pro VC appointed

Meanwhile, the Ministry has appointed Amrendra Kumar Das from IIT Guwahati’s Department of Design as Pro Vice-Chancellor of Tezpur University.

The situation in the University has been tense since mid-September, with students accusing the VC and institute authorities of not showing due respect to cultural icon Zubeen Garg, even as the State was mourning the singer’s death.

Apart from alleged fiscal irregularities, deforestation and ecological destruction were also reported at the picturesque campus during Mr. Singh’s administration.

The VC abstained from the campus after the university witnessed heated scenes and an exchange of words between him and students on September 22, leading to a situation where Mr. Singh had to nearly flee the spot.

At least 11 faculty members and senior officials have resigned since the protests began in September.