The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) today condemned the recent incident in which the Pro-Vice Chancellor (PVC) of Nagaland University’s Meriema Campus was harassed and threatened by a group of individuals purportedly from Meriema village.
“The NSF is deeply concerned about this incident, which jeopardizes the safety and well-being of a respected academic leader and raises questions about inclusivity within the university community,” stated the NSF in a condemnation letter issued by Medovi Rhi, President and Chumben Khuvung, General Secretary.
According to the NSF, the incident, which occurred on October 16, stemmed from disagreements related to bill payments for the construction of roads leading to the new engineering campus. “It is crucial to note that there are established procedures for releasing bills, including the involvement of a construction monitoring committee to certify work completion before payment approval. Despite the sensitivity of the issue and the need for immediate intervention of the Vice-Chancellor, the Federation is dismayed at the lackadaisical attitude of the VC at Nagaland University headquarters in Lumami, the response for which has been inadequate, leaving the campus community feeling unheard,” stated the NSF.
The Federation also questioned the timing of the fact-finding committee’s visit from Lumami, which took place after the Pro-Vice Chancellor was threatened. “It is crucial that matters of discrimination and harassment are addressed promptly and effectively,” asserted the NSF.
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Urging the Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University to assume his responsibility as the head of the institution and engage in dialogue with the campus community, the NSF expressed confidence that the fact-finding committee will work towards an amicable solution within the stipulated period.
“We also recognize the complexity of land ownership issues and call upon the State government to play a pivotal role in settling these disputes (as per the MoU), so that such issues does not surface in the near future,” stated the Federation.
Stressing that the incident should not lead to division between the university and the local community, the NSF encouraged a peaceful coexistence and collaboration for the betterment of education and development in the region.
The Federation further demanded accountability, justice, and a swift resolution to the issues faced by Nagaland University’s Meriema Campus. “The safety and well-being of students and faculty, along with the overall academic environment, should be the utmost priority for the university authorities,” advocated the Federation.
