Assam Pradesh Mahila Congress President Mira Borthakur Goswami today criticised the state government for what she called complete silence and inaction over the ongoing corruption allegations against Tezpur University Vice Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh. She was addressing a press conference in Biswanath, where she expressed deep concern over the condition of one of Assam’s most respected institutions.
Goswami said Tezpur University, a central university set up with the aim of promoting Assamese culture, knowledge and pride, has now been facing a serious crisis. For nearly two months, students and staff have been protesting on campus, demanding action against the Vice Chancellor. She said the situation has become “unbearable” for many on the campus, yet the authorities have not taken any meaningful steps to resolve the issue.
She recalled that the matter was raised during the last Winter Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly by Opposition Leader Debabrata Saikia, but Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma “completely ignored the issue.” 
“It is shocking and very disgusting that the Chief Minister is ignoring this. It is also disgusting that the VC is doing these things in Tezpur University,” Goswami said. She questioned why the government was eager to talk about building new universities, including one by the Premji Foundation, but unwilling to address a crisis in an established and prestigious institution like Tezpur University.
Goswami alleged that corruption under VC Shambhu Nath Singh has crossed all limits. She claimed that simple items like plastic chairs, which normally cost a few hundred rupees, were allegedly shown at ₹5,000, and several such purchases were made. She also alleged irregularities in the purchase of books and other materials, saying that the corruption allegations now amount to nearly ₹6 crore.
“Why is the Chief Minister silent? Why is he not speaking a single word about these issues? He always says he is the most powerful Chief Minister in the country. Then why is he not acting? He should inform the Centre and the Union Education Ministry. He should play the role of a bridge instead of turning away from the matter,” she said.
Goswami also criticised the growing involvement of political and ideological groups in educational institutions. She said that even RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat recently visited Gauhati University and held programmes based on political ideology. “Educational institutions should not be used for political activities,” she added.
She also referred to the latest CAG report, which highlighted Assam’s rising debt. She said the financial condition of the state has become worrying and citizens deserve clear answers from the government.
Calling the corruption allegations “shameless and serious”, Goswami urged both the state and central governments to take immediate steps to restore normalcy and credibility in Tezpur University. She said the future of students cannot be compromised and the issue must be resolved without further delay.
