Arunachal Guv reviews law and order situation, seeks probe into NERIST incident
Itanagar, June 24
Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik on Wednesday held detailed discussions with State Home Minister Mama Natung on the prevailing law and order situation in the state, with particular focus on the recent developments at the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology.
A Raj Bhavan official said the Home Minister called on the Governor at Raj Bhavan, where the two leaders reviewed the overall law and order situation in Arunachal Pradesh and discussed in detail the recent incident at NERIST, located at Nirjuli near Itanagar.
Expressing deep concern over the unfortunate developments, the Governor said NERIST, one of the premier technical and higher educational institutions in the Northeastern region, had been subjected to an incident that has raised serious concerns about the institution's functioning and environment.
He emphasised that educational institutions must remain safe, secure and conducive to learning, and underscored the responsibility of all stakeholders to protect the sanctity, dignity and reputation of educational establishments across the state.
While expressing his anguish over the developments, Lt Gen Parnaik called for an impartial inquiry into the allegations of rowdyism, threats, coercion and intimidation faced by the Director of NERIST from certain groups.
He observed that such incidents set a wrong example for the youth and should be addressed appropriately in accordance with the law.
Highlighting the importance of sound institutional governance, he stated that the management and administration of educational institutions should be guided by the principles of merit, integrity, dignity, discipline, transparency and accountability.
He further stressed that any act that undermines the functioning, credibility, or harmony of educational institutions must be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law, to reinforce public confidence in the state's educational ecosystem.
The Home Minister assured the Governor that the state government is treating the matter with utmost seriousness and would conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. He said appropriate action would be taken against those found responsible after the inquiry was completed.
Natung, who also holds the portfolios of Indigenous Affairs, Inter-State Border Affairs and Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining law and order, protecting educational institutions, and ensuring a safe and secure environment for students, teachers and staff across Arunachal Pradesh.
NERIST has been experiencing turbulence in recent weeks following controversies over administrative and recruitment matters. The developments culminated in the resignation of Director Prof. Narendranath S earlier this month amid an ongoing dispute over recruitment-related issues and disciplinary actions against certain officials.
The episode triggered protests and raised concerns over institutional governance and autonomy, prompting calls from various quarters for the restoration of a peaceful academic atmosphere and the uninterrupted continuation of academic activities at the institute.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Why does it always take a big incident for the authorities to act? Educational institutions should be sanctuaries of learning, not places of fear. The governor's call for an impartial probe is welcome, but we also need long-term measures to prevent such issues. 🙏
It's heartbreaking to see such a respected institution like NERIST in turmoil. The rowdyism and threats are a disgrace. I hope the inquiry gets to the bottom of this and those responsible are held accountable. Students deserve a safe environment to study. 🇮🇳
While I appreciate the Governor's concern, I wish the state government had acted sooner. The resignation of the Director signals deep-rooted issues in governance. Let's hope this probe doesn't become a political football. Focus on merit and transparency, please. ♂️
As someone from the Northeast, this news is deeply troubling. NERIST is a gem for education in the region. The fact that the Director faced intimidation shows a failure of institutional safeguards. I hope the Home Minister delivers on his promise of a thorough investigation. 🤞
It's reassuring that the Governor and Home Minister are coordinating closely on this. However, I'd like to see concrete action, not just assurances. The principles of merit, dignity, and transparency must be upheld. Let's hope the inquiry is swift and impartial. 🙏
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