Overview The Ministry of Education (MoE) has directed Tezpur University's Vice-Chancellor, Shambhu Nath Singh , to proceed on leave, initiating an enquiry into several allegations against him. This action follows ongoing protests since mid-September regarding alleged irregularities during his tenure. The Ministry has also appointed a Pro Vice-Chancellor to ensure the university's smooth functioning during the enquiry. Key Developments Enquiry and Investigation Enquiry Panel: A three-member panel has been established to investigate all matters related to the situation at Tezpur University , including allegations against the Vice-Chancellor . VC's Recusal: The VC is required to recuse himself from all duties and remain on leave until the enquiry is completed. Report Deadline: The enquiry panel is mandated to submit its report within a maximum of three months . Appointment of Pro VC New Appointment: Amrendra Kumar Das from IIT Guwahati’s Department of Design has been appointed as the Pro Vice-Chancellor of Tezpur University . Purpose: To maintain administrative stability during the enquiry period. Background of Protests Timeline: Protests have been ongoing since mid-September. Grievances: Students and faculty accuse the VC of various irregularities, including a lack of respect towards cultural icon Zubeen Garg during a period of mourning. Escalation: Protests included a 24-hour hunger strike on December 29, 2025 , marking 100 days of agitation. Allegations Against the VC Fiscal Irregularities: Accusations of financial mismanagement during Mr. Singh’s administration. Ecological Damage: Reports of deforestation and ecological destruction on the university campus. Faculty Resignations: At least 11 faculty members and senior officials have resigned since the protests began. September 22 Incident: The VC abstained from campus after heated exchanges with students, leading to a near-fleeing situation. UPSC Relevance This situation at Tezpur University is relevant to several aspects of the UPSC syllabus, particularly: GS2: Governance: Issues of accountability, transparency, and administration in educational institutions. GS3: Environment: Allegations of ecological destruction link to environmental governance. GS4: Ethics: Ethical conduct of public officials and administrators. Important Facts The enquiry was ordered by the Ministry of Education (MoE) . Shambhu Nath Singh is the Vice-Chancellor under investigation. Amrendra Kumar Das is the newly appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor . The enquiry panel has three months to submit its report. Protests began in mid-September . At least 11 faculty members have resigned.