Shillong – The Jawaharlal Nehru University Student Union (JNUSU) has expressed support for students at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), where a hunger strike demanding administrative reforms has entered its eighth day. The protest has intensified, with multiple students reportedly hospitalized due to deteriorating health conditions.
The primary demand of the NEHU students is the resignation of Vice Chancellor Prabha Shankar Shukla and four senior officials, whom they accuse of corruption and procedural violations. A key point of contention is the lack of a Pro-Vice-Chancellor appointment for two of the university’s campuses, which students claim undermines effective governance.
In a solidarity letter, JNUSU underscored the critical state of affairs at NEHU, highlighting the “crumbling infrastructure, incompetent recruitment processes, lack of basic facilities, and delays in fellowship approvals” that are affecting students’ quality of life and research opportunities. JNUSU also drew parallels between NEHU’s issues and broader administrative challenges faced by Indian universities, attributing these issues to policies under the Modi government.
Amid the escalating situation, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced an intervention from Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who has pledged to work toward a resolution. Sangma confirmed the development in a social media post, signaling potential high-level engagement to address the crisis.
In response to the allegations, Vice Chancellor Shukla has proposed forming an inquiry committee led by a retired judge or senior official to investigate the administrative concerns. Shukla reiterated his openness to dialogue, emphasizing his commitment to finding a constructive solution.
This protest at NEHU has now evolved into a flashpoint within India’s higher education system, underscoring deep-rooted challenges in university governance and accountability.