The North Eastern Hill University Students’ Union (NEHUSU) and the influential Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) NEHU Unit urged the Ministry of Education to promptly act on findings of a committee report that highlights alleged administrative failures and mismanagement at NEHU.

In a letter addressed to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, NEHUSU General Secretary Toniho Kharsati expressed concern over the delay in addressing the inquiry committee’s findings.

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The two-member panel, constituted by the Ministry on November 14, 2024, had gathered evidence from student bodies against Vice-Chancellor Prof P S Shukla. The committee’s report, originally
due in November, was granted an extension, yet no official update has been received as of January 4, 2025.

Kharsati called for immediate intervention to restore confidence in the university’s governance. “In light of the significant concerns raised and the urgency of the matter, we respectfully request you to take immediate action and provide a formal response to the committee’s findings,” he stated.

The NEHU, established in 1973, is a premier institution in Meghalaya, serving students across the Northeast. However, recent allegations of mismanagement have raised concerns about its administrative efficiency and academic integrity.

The controversy revolves around Prof P S Shukla, whose leadership has faced criticism for ineffective governance.

Student organizations claim his tenure has been marred by inadequate management, leading to a loss of trust.

The inquiry committee was tasked with investigating these allegations and providing recommendations for corrective measures.

The student bodies have made it clear they will not cooperate with directives from Prof. Shukla, citing a complete breakdown of trust. They have also announced a ban on his entry into the university premises, describing his administration as detrimental to NEHU’s welfare and progress.

“In light of these grave concerns, we respectfully request your urgent intervention to restore the integrity and proper functioning of NEHU,” the letter emphasised.