NEHU Crisis Unfortunate, State Acting as Mediator to Resolve Deadlock: CM Conrad Sangma
He explained that NEHU is a central government institution, which limits the direct involvement of the state government
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday described the ongoing situation at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) as “very unfortunate,” stating that it is severely affecting students as well as employees of the institution.
Responding to questions from journalists, the Chief Minister said the issue has reached a deadlock, making the situation complicated to resolve. He explained that NEHU is a central government institution, which limits the direct involvement of the state government.
“I have been in constant touch at different levels with the Union Ministry, the minister concerned and NEHU authorities. However, since NEHU comes directly under the Central Government, it is a sensitive matter for us to intervene directly,” Sangma said.
He clarified that the Meghalaya government’s role has been limited to mediation between the concerned parties. While offering recommendations and suggestions, the Chief Minister said progress depends on cooperation from all sides, which has not always been possible due to ground-level complexities.
Sangma acknowledged that repeated complications have made the situation difficult, but assured that the state government is making every effort to facilitate dialogue without interfering in the autonomy and functioning of the university.
He informed that even on Thursday, the Education Minister was holding discussions with NEHU officials in an attempt to find a solution to the ongoing deadlock. “We are doing our best and will continue to engage constructively to see if a mediated solution can be achieved,” he said.
Expressing concern for students and employees, particularly casual workers, the Chief Minister said the government is hopeful that steps can be taken to ensure the release of pending salaries.
Reiterating that the matter lies beyond the jurisdiction of the state government, Sangma stressed that it is not being taken lightly. “At the end of the day, our people are suffering, and we want to be part of the solution in the best possible way,” he added.
