Thu Nov 21 22:39:19 UTC 2024: ## NEHU Hunger Strike Enters 16th Day as Students Demand VC’s Removal

**SHILLONG, MEGHALAYA** – A student hunger strike at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) in Shillong entered its 16th day today, with students steadfast in their demand for the removal of Vice Chancellor Prabha Shankar Shukla and other senior officials. The NEHU Students’ Union (NEHUSU) alleges illegal appointments and incompetence within the university’s administration, citing a 21-point drop in NEHU’s National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking to 101 as evidence of mismanagement.

The students’ demands include the removal of the VC and other officials, the reversal of alleged illegal appointments, and accountability for the declining academic and administrative standards. In response to the protests, the Union Education Ministry has formed a two-member inquiry committee to investigate the allegations within 15 days.

Despite pleas from Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Governor Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar, and Education Minister Rakkam Sangma urging the students to end the hunger strike due to health concerns, NEHUSU remains resolute. The strike has garnered significant support from various organizations, including the North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) and the Khasi Students Union. The students have also appealed directly to President Droupadi Murmu for intervention.

The inquiry committee is expected to visit NEHU soon, and while state leaders have engaged with the Union Education Minister to expedite a resolution, NEHUSU General Secretary Toniho S. Kharsati has confirmed the protest will continue until their demands are met. The situation remains tense as students persevere with their hunger strike, highlighting the deep-seated concerns about the university’s leadership and future.

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