Centre Appoints Pro-Vice Chancellor at Tezpur University Amid Administrative Reshuffle
The central government has taken decisive administrative action to address the ongoing crisis at Tezpur University in Assam. In an official order issued by the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education, Professor Amarendra Kumar Das has been appointed as the Pro-Vice Chancellor of the institution. He will hold this position until further directives are issued, with the appointment having received approval from the competent authority.
According to the official communication, Professor Das’s service conditions will be governed by the provisions of the Tezpur University Act, along with its statutes and ordinances. The order, dated December 31, 2025, has been circulated to multiple stakeholders, including the university registrar, IIT Guwahati, the University Grants Commission (UGC), and the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). The central government expects this appointment to reinforce both academic and administrative leadership at Tezpur University, which stands among the prominent central universities in the northeastern region.
High-Level Committee Formed to Investigate Campus Issues
In a parallel development, the government has constituted a three-member high-level inquiry committee to examine the prevailing circumstances at the university and evaluate the allegations that have surfaced. This decision has been taken under Section 9 of the Tezpur University Act, 1993. The committee’s formation was announced through an official memorandum released by the Department of Higher Education.
Vice Chancellor Placed on Compulsory Leave
As part of the administrative measures, Vice Chancellor Shambhunath Singh has been directed to step away from all official responsibilities and proceed on leave with immediate effect. He will remain on leave until the completion of the inquiry process. This move is intended to ensure an impartial and transparent investigation into the matters at hand.
Scope of the Inquiry
The newly formed committee has been entrusted with a comprehensive mandate. Its primary task involves a detailed examination of the findings and recommendations contained in the fact-finding committee report that was previously submitted to the Chancellor’s office. Additionally, the panel will review the broader circumstances that led to the current crisis at the university, including issues such as resignations by various office bearers and changes in charge assignments.
The committee’s work is expected to shed light on the sequence of events that have unfolded at the institution and provide clarity on the administrative and governance challenges it faces. These developments mark a significant chapter in the university’s efforts to restore stability and normalcy in its operations.
The government’s dual approach — appointing a new Pro-Vice Chancellor while simultaneously initiating a formal inquiry — reflects its commitment to addressing the institutional challenges through both immediate leadership support and long-term corrective measures. Stakeholders within the academic community will be watching closely as the inquiry progresses and the university navigates this transitional period.
