A simmering months-long crisis at Assam’s Tezpur University escalated dramatically on Saturday, as students prevented a high-level Ministry of Education delegation — led by UGC Chairman Vineet Joshi — from leaving the campus until the government commits in writing to remove Vice-Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh.

The three-member delegation, accompanied by senior police and district officials, had arrived earlier in the day to meet students, faculty and staff amid continuing turmoil over allegations of financial irregularities, environmental damage, and administrative paralysis under Singh’s leadership.

However, as the team attempted to exit, they were blocked at the university's main gate by thousands of students who have been protesting for 79 days — a standoff that continued late into the evening.

Academic activities have been suspended since November 29, and end-term examinations have been cancelled.

A handwritten note from a senior education ministry official was handed to student leaders in an effort to break the deadlock, but protesters rejected it, arguing that it carried an incorrect date and lacked clarity or accountability.

Police reinforcements have since been deployed at the site as students raised slogans demanding Singh’s immediate dismissal.

Speaking from inside the campus, Joshi attempted to reassure the university community, saying the ministry was reviewing the situation and had already conducted two fact-finding inquiries.

“We came here to listen to all stakeholders. They have given us their feedback. Appropriate steps will be taken in the interest of the university,” he said.

But the statement did little to pacify the protesters.

In a strong response, the Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF), spearheading the agitation, said the continued lack of a concrete solution reflects “systemic indifference.”

“The team remains confined inside the premises, while thousands of students sit on the road demanding action,” it said. “The escalation is the result of prolonged neglect. We will not withdraw until a clear written decision is issued.”

The crisis has triggered unprecedented institutional fractures: the Tezpur University Teachers’ Association and Non-Teaching Employees’ Association have both backed the strike, while the seniormost professor, Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya, assumed charge as acting vice-chancellor on Friday citing provisions under university statutes.

Meanwhile, Singh — who has avoided campus since a heated confrontation with students on September 22 — had reportedly convened a virtual meeting of the Board of Management this week and named a pro-VC. The appointee, Professor Joya Chakraborty, declined the role.

Beyond allegations of financial mismanagement, students and staff say the administration disrespected Assamese cultural sentiments after the death of singer Zubeen Garg — an issue that intensified resentment and added emotional weight to the protest.

With governance now fractured, student unrest growing, and government officials immobilised inside campus gates, the standoff has reached a breaking point — leaving the future of Tezpur University’s leadership and academic calendar uncertain.