Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, Debabrata Saikia, on Tuesday requested Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya to investigate the alleged conduct of Tezpur University Vice Chancellor Prof. Shambhu Nath Singh. The matter arose following the death of Zubin Garg, a beloved singer and cultural icon of Assam. In a letter to the Governor, Saikia expressed his deep concern and dissatisfaction. He stated that the delay in holding a memorial service at Tezpur University following the untimely death of Zubin Garg and the university administration’s failure to provide accurate information to the student-teacher community amounted to an insult to the cultural sentiments of Assam.
Delay in the memorial service at the university and misleading information
Saikia alleged that the university administration provided false information to the public. He stated that several newspapers reported that the memorial service for Zubin Garg was scheduled for September 21st, while the university’s official notification stated that the ceremony was scheduled for September 23rd. This misleading information hurt public sentiments and damaged the institution’s credibility. Saikia termed this an insensitive and unacceptable act.
Student Union Elections and the Vice Chancellor’s Offensive Attitude
Saikia also pointed out that the university held student union elections on September 20th despite the Assam government declaring a state-level mourning period. When students protested, the Vice Chancellor reportedly said, “Don’t make a joke of this now,” which was inappropriate and insensitive to the dignity of his position. The opposition leader requested the Governor to investigate the conduct of the Vice Chancellor and the university administration, especially in the matters of holding elections during the mourning period, delaying the memorial service, and spreading misinformation.
Demand for Maintaining Cultural Sensitivity and Responsibility
Saikia further stated in the letter that Tezpur University is a result of the Assam Movement, and therefore, a permanent memorial honoring the martyrs of Assam and their role should be established on the university campus. He stressed that the appointment of regional Vice Chancellors is essential, taking into account the diverse demographics and cultural traditions of the northeastern region, so that central universities remain sensitive to local cultural values and sentiments. Saikia also stated that the university, as an institution of national importance, must maintain dignity, cultural sensitivity, and accountability. He urged the Governor to intervene to restore the university’s dignity and restore public confidence.
