Assam’s Tezpur University VC Faces Allegations of Financial and Administrative Irregularities

The Vice-Chancellor of Tezpur University, Shambhu Nath Singh, is facing serious allegations from the Tezpur University Teachers’ Association (TUTA), almost a year after a similar controversy at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong. On September 27, 2025, TUTA accused Prof. Singh of financial and administrative irregularities that they claim have eroded the academic and institutional integrity of the university.

The association also condemned the VC for disrespectful remarks about Assam’s cultural icon, Zubeen Garg, intensifying criticism from teachers and staff. TUTA president Kusum Bania stated that a memorandum detailing the allegations has been submitted to Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, demanding the immediate removal of the VC.

“The irregularities include questionable procurement practices, repeated awarding of contracts to the same vendors, improper disposal of scrap, and substandard construction funded by the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA),” Prof. Bania said. He added that newly built hostels already exhibit cracks, seepage, and malfunctioning amenities, highlighting poor quality control.

TUTA also pointed to serious lapses in transparency and accountability, with faculty and wardens reportedly pressured to certify work without access to proper documentation. The association criticized the finance office, managed by an officer on extended tenure without regular appointment, for mismanagement, delays in fund disbursement, and unprofessional conduct, which has hindered research and departmental activities.

Other concerns raised include the removal of the Pro-VC position, irregular administrative appointments, arbitrary suspension of staff, creation of unauthorised posts with excessive perks, and vacancies in key roles like Registrar. According to TUTA, these issues have strained academic operations, forcing research scholars to take on teaching responsibilities and slowing institutional processes.

Prof. Singh could not be reached for comment. The allegations echo past events at NEHU, where VC Prabha Shankar Shukla faced similar accusations in November 2024, leading to his absence from campus. TUTA has demanded a comprehensive inquiry into the Tezpur University VC’s actions to safeguard the institution’s credibility and functioning.