Shillong, Meghalaya – North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Pro Vice-Chancellor S Umdor has resigned. His departure comes amidst prolonged campus unrest and demands from various university stakeholders.
Reasons for Resignation
In his resignation letter, Umdor cited an absence of essential support systems. He also mentioned continued uncertainty over key institutional decisions. Umdor stated these factors made his continuation untenable in the university’s best interest.
His resignation followed a joint statement by NEHU students, faculty, and non-faculty members. This statement explicitly demanded Umdor’s resignation. It alleged governance failures, delays in statutory decisions, and his inability to function independently. This inability stemmed from the extended absence of Vice-Chancellor PS Shukla.
Ongoing Campus Turmoil
Demands for Umdor’s resignation intensified amid repeated protests. These protests highlighted administrative paralysis and delayed decision-making. University Vice-Chancellor PS Shukla has been away from the Shillong campus for over one year. His prolonged absence followed protests over alleged mismanagement and irregularities.
Umdor had been entrusted with day-to-day academic and administrative functions. This was an effort to stabilize the university’s operations. University officials stated the academic calendar remained on track despite the turbulent atmosphere. End-of-semester undergraduate and postgraduate examinations were conducted as scheduled.
Teachers’ Body Alleges Inaction
The NEHU Teachers’ Association (NEHUTA) has strongly criticized Umdor’s tenure. NEHUTA alleged Umdor “did nothing” to address financial cuts imposed by the ministry. These cuts have severely impacted the university’s daily operations and overall functioning, according to NEHUTA.
NEHUTA further stated that Umdor, alongside VC Shukla, was responsible for the hasty implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 at the undergraduate level. The association credited faculty members with making timely interventions. These interventions prevented a more disastrous outcome for students.
Additional Resignations and Project Stalls
The ongoing administrative crisis also led to other high-profile departures. The university registrar, finance officer, and several senior faculty members have resigned. These individuals had been holding additional administrative charges during the period of unrest.
Adding to the challenges, a crucial Rs 300-crore hostel project remains stalled. This project is vital for enhancing student accommodation and campus infrastructure.
Key Developments
- NEHU Pro-VC S Umdor resigns due to cited lack of support and decision uncertainty.
- Students, faculty, and staff demanded his resignation over governance failures.
- VC PS Shukla has been absent for over one year amid mismanagement allegations.
- NEHUTA criticizes Umdor for inaction on financial cuts and NEP 2020 implementation.
- University Registrar, Finance Officer, and senior faculty also resigned.
- A Rs 300-crore hostel project remains stalled amidst the turmoil.