Tezpur University is moving toward a complete shutdown after its students announced that they will launch full civil disobedience from Tuesday morning. The students have accused the Union Ministry of Education (MoE) of remaining silent for more than three months on the inquiry against Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh, who has allegedly remained absent for an extended period.
The student fraternity released a long and strongly worded statement on Sunday night. The statement said they were deeply dissatisfied with what they describe as “sustained silence” from the Ministry. They said the Ministry had earlier set deadlines for clarification on December 9 and again on December 19, but both dates passed without any official response.
Students have argued that the Ministry communicated assurances on multiple occasions, but no action followed. Students say Monday marks the 93rd day since the issue was first raised, yet the administration remains quiet. 
Many students fear that prolonged silence has created confusion and uncertainty on campus. They say the inquiry into the Vice-Chancellor has not moved forward and there has been no communication from the university administration or the Ministry of Education.
Students say this silence undermines the credibility of a central university. They believe that when there are serious allegations against the head of the institution, students, faculty, and staff should receive timely information. They argue that lack of communication has created mistrust.
A student representative said that several attempts were made to reach out to authorities. Letters and appeals were sent to the Ministry. They say that verbal assurances were given but no formal response was issued. Students believe that the Ministry’s silence on its own deadlines raises questions about accountability.
In their statement, students said that civil disobedience would resume in full scale from Tuesday morning. They announced that academic and administrative activities will be halted. Classes, office work, and campus operations may stop completely if students receive support from other university stakeholders.
Student leaders said they will continue the protest until the Ministry provides clarity on the inquiry. They said the movement would intensify if the government or university tries to suppress the agitation.
According to the students, this is not the first time they raised concerns about governance. Earlier, meetings and appeals were made to the administration requesting transparency. Students say they were patient, but now their trust has been eroded.
The issue revolves around Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh. Students allege he has been absent for long stretches of time and has failed to fulfil his responsibilities. The students want an inquiry, and they want the results or status to be made public.
Students say a central university must meet standards of accountability. They argue that silence from the Ministry sends a wrong message, especially when concerns relate to leadership failures. Students feel the administration must respect democratic rights and student voices.
Student grievances gradually grew over the last three months. According to student representatives, no communication regarding the inquiry was shared. Repeated reminders only received verbal assurances. Students say deadlines were issued but not honoured. They believe this shows negligence from authorities.
The protest has been developing for several weeks, and frustration has increased day by day. Now students feel civil disobedience is the only option left.
The announcement also reflects the rising unrest at central universities across India over questions of governance and transparency. Students say they are forced to protest because their concerns are ignored.
The planned shutdown will affect thousands of students and employees. Exams, laboratory work, administrative processes and research activities could come to a standstill if civil disobedience continues. Students say they know the consequences but believe the struggle is necessary.
Several students expressed worry about their academic future. They fear delays in examinations and research evaluation. But they say that unless the Ministry responds, the agitation will not stop.
Faculty members have not issued a collective statement yet. Some faculty said they were concerned and are waiting to see if the Ministry intervenes. Administrative officials declined to comment on the matter.
