Tezpur University in Assam continued to remain shut for the sixth consecutive day on Thursday as students persisted with their demand for the removal of Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh over alleged corruption and financial irregularities. Academic and administrative activities have been suspended since November 29, while staff members have rejected Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s proposal to appoint a pro vice chancellor as an interim measure.

The unrest, which began in mid-September, escalated into a complete shutdown last week. Although limited access for urgent departmental work has been allowed during morning hours for the past three days, regular functioning has not resumed.

Chief Minister Sarma recently urged Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to appoint a pro VC temporarily while an inquiry into the allegations against the current VC is conducted. However, the Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF), leading the protest, dismissed the proposal as inadequate. The forum reiterated demands for the immediate suspension of the VC, appointment of an acting vice chancellor, and publication of inquiry reports already submitted.

TUUF also criticised the chief minister, alleging that he intervened only after the matter drew national attention. State Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi accused Sarma of shielding the VC and cited earlier financial irregularity inquiries during Singh’s tenure at Patna University. Gogoi said the university’s reputation must be safeguarded by appointing a new vice chancellor.

Meanwhile, end-term examinations have been cancelled, and faculty and staff unions have extended support to the ongoing strike. The vice-chancellor has not returned to campus since a confrontation with students on September 22, which intensified tensions.