SHILLONG: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has voiced serious concern over the deepening administrative crisis at North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), describing the situation as “unfortunate” and warning that the ongoing deadlock is severely affecting students and employees of the central university.
With academic and administrative operations virtually paralysed, the Chief Minister said the prolonged impasse is jeopardising the future of thousands who depend on the institution.
Expressing alarm over the unfolding crisis, Sangma said the situation has gone far beyond an internal administrative issue.
“It is deeply saddening to witness the state of affairs at NEHU. This is no longer just an administrative matter—it is directly impacting students’ futures and the livelihoods of employees. At present, almost every operation within the university has come to a grinding halt,” the Chief Minister said.
Clarifying the state government’s position, Sangma pointed out that NEHU is a Central University, which limits the extent of direct intervention by the Meghalaya Government.
He said the State’s role is to act as a facilitator and mediator, respecting the autonomy of the university and the jurisdiction of the Central Government.
The Chief Minister confirmed that he has already taken up the issue with the Union Ministry of Education in an effort to find a resolution.
Sangma revealed that the State Education Minister is in constant communication with NEHU authorities and other stakeholders to mitigate the crisis.
He said the immediate priorities of the state government include — release of pending wages for casual and contractual workers, safeguarding students’ academic interests and well-being and encouraging dialogue between the contending parties to break the deadlock.
Despite jurisdictional limitations, the Chief Minister asserted that the state government would not remain a silent spectator while citizens suffer.
“Even though this issue falls outside our direct jurisdiction, we are not taking it lightly. At the end of the day, it is our people who are affected. We are determined to be part of the solution and to help end this chaos,” Sangma said.
