Tezpur University students block Higher Education Secretary's vehicle from leaving campus, demand VC's ouster

A high voltage drama unfolded at Tezpur University on December 6 after students blocked the institution’s main gate, preventing the vehicle of Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi from leaving the campus. The blockade came after Joshi, who visited the university to review the ongoing administrative crisis, reportedly failed to provide any written assurance or concrete resolution to the students’ demands.

Joshi’s visit, which culminated in a meeting that stretched until 9 pm, was part of the Centre’s attempt to address weeks of unrest on campus. Students, faculty members, and non-teaching staff—collectively organised under the Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF)—have been holding sustained protests alleging misconduct, corruption, and administrative collapse under Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh.

Protesters welcomed Joshi’s arrival with loud slogans, such as 'Campus Humara, Faisla Humara', 'Shambhu Hai Hai', calling for action against alleged financial irregularities, deteriorating academic standards, and what they described as a complete breakdown of governance at the central university. However, frustration grew when Joshi concluded the meeting without issuing a written commitment or timeline for intervention.

Agitated students then staged a sit-in at the main gate, raising slogans against the “absentee” Vice-Chancellor, who has been at the centre of corruption allegations that have pushed the campus into prolonged turmoil. They accused the Secretary of offering “no solid answers” despite acknowledging the severity of the crisis.

Students continue to demand immediate action, transparency, and a formal roadmap to restore normalcy on campus. As of late night, the blockade persisted, reflecting the deepening standoff between the university community and the administration.