The Ministry of Education on January 2, 2026, directed Tezpur University Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh to proceed on immediate leave amid a prolonged campus crisis that has disrupted academic activities for months. The decision follows sustained protests by students, teachers, and staff over various administrative and governance issues, including allegations of financial irregularities, mismanagement, and lack of transparency in decision-making. To ensure smooth functioning during the investigation, the ministry has constituted a three-member inquiry committee tasked with examining all aspects of the situation, including the specific allegations leveled against the vice-chancellor and the broader circumstances that led to the unrest.

The inquiry panel has been empowered to thoroughly investigate the complaints, review university records, and interact with stakeholders to ascertain the facts. The ministry’s intervention comes after repeated appeals from the university community for action to restore normalcy. The ongoing protests have affected routine academic and administrative operations, with students demanding accountability and reforms in the institution’s governance structure. The committee’s findings are expected to play a key role in determining the future course of action regarding the university’s leadership.

In a parallel measure to maintain administrative continuity, the ministry appointed Professor Amrendra Kumar Das of IIT Guwahati as the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Tezpur University until further orders. Prof. Das, known for his academic credentials and administrative experience, is tasked with overseeing day-to-day operations and ensuring that academic schedules, examinations, and essential services continue uninterrupted during the inquiry. This interim arrangement aims to prevent further disruption while the investigation proceeds.

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The developments at Tezpur University, one of Assam’s prominent central institutions, have drawn attention to broader concerns about governance and accountability in higher education. The ministry has emphasized its commitment to upholding the autonomy and academic integrity of the university while addressing the grievances raised by the campus community. The inquiry committee is expected to submit its report within a stipulated timeframe, after which a final decision on the vice-chancellor’s position and necessary reforms will be taken.

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