Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Secretary DP Wahlang is set to meet with senior officials from the Ministry of Education on January 13 to address the escalating crisis at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU).
The meeting comes in the wake of ongoing student protests demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor PS Shukla over alleged administrative irregularities.
A two-member committee appointed by the Ministry of Education recently concluded its investigation into the allegations, though the findings remain undisclosed. The chief secretary expressed hope for progress during the discussions. “I will brief the new higher education secretary and advise on necessary actions for NEHU,” Wahlang said on Tuesday. “We hope to see a breakthrough soon.”
While NEHU operates under central jurisdiction, the state government has been closely monitoring the situation. Wahlang highlighted the limited role of the state in the university’s affairs but stressed the importance of maintaining law and order to ensure students’ academic pursuits are not disrupted.
Student organisations, including the North-Eastern Hill University Students’ Union (NEHUSU) and the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), have been at the forefront of protests against the university administration. The unrest has prompted calls for urgent intervention, with students citing frustration over what they describe as mismanagement and lack of accountability.
The Ministry of Education is reviewing the investigation report, but no official decisions have been announced. Wahlang noted that a specific agenda has been prepared for the upcoming meeting, focusing on addressing the university’s challenges while safeguarding students’ interests.
The state government’s cautious approach reflects the delicate balance required in navigating the autonomy of a central university. However, Wahlang’s engagement with federal officials signals a concerted effort to find a resolution to the ongoing turmoil.
With student protests continuing and administrative issues under scrutiny, all eyes are now on the January 13 meeting to provide clarity and a path forward for NEHU.
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