ITANAGAR : The NERIST Researchers’ Association (NRSA) has appealed to the Ministry of Education, Government of India, to reconsider the resignation of the Director of North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), Prof Narendranath S, citing concerns over the circumstances leading to his departure and its potential impact on the Institute’s academic environment.
In a letter addressed to the Secretary of the Ministry of Education, the Association stated that the Director tendered his resignation on May 29 following an incident in which, it alleged, a group of individuals and organizations entered his office chamber and created a highly disturbing situation on the campus.
According to the NRSA, the incident involved protests, intimidation, and disturbances that disrupted the otherwise peaceful academic atmosphere of the Institute.
The association claimed that the situation escalated to such an extent that security personnel, including CRPF jawans, had to be deployed on the campus and a magistrate was required to facilitate the director’s safe movement from office to his official residence.
“The sequence of events suggests that the Director was placed under immense pressure and ultimately compelled to tender his resignation on the same day. The resignation was subsequently forwarded to the Ministry of Education and the Board of Management for their approval,” the letter stated.
The Association noted that the incident occurred during the Institute’s vacation period when research and academic activities were continuing with limited campus occupancy.
It expressed concern that the developments had adversely affected the morale of students, researchers, faculty members and staff.
NRSA further claimed that many campus residents, particularly those from outside Arunachal Pradesh, have expressed concerns regarding their safety and security. It warned that the prevailing atmosphere of fear and uncertainty could negatively impact ongoing research and academic activities.
Highlighting Prof Narendranath’s contributions during his tenure, the Association urged the Education Ministry to reconsider the Director’s resignation.
“At a time when several institutional activities had remained dormant, his leadership brought renewed momentum to campus development. Student engagement and academic activities witnessed noticeable improvement. Research output, publications, and scholarly activities also progressed significantly under his guidance. His efforts helped create a more vibrant academic atmosphere and strengthened the Institute’s commitment to research and innovation,” it said.
The NRSA also stated that NERIST has previously faced considerable delays in its overall development due to prolonged vacancies in the position of Director. The Institute cannot afford to return to such uncertainty.
“We further submit that appointing a temporary or acting Director may not adequately address the institute’s long-term needs, as such arrangements often have limited administrative authority and decision-making powers. For the sustained growth and development of NERIST, the institute requires stable and permanent leadership,” the letter further said. (Source: UNI)
