Itanagar, Jun 23 (PTI): Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K T Parnaik (Retd) on Tuesday stressed the need to restore normalcy at the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) near here, and ensure that the recent unrest on the campus is not repeated.
Assuring that those responsible for the incident would be dealt with as per law after a thorough inquiry, he said the interests of students and the institution must remain paramount.
The governor made the remarks during a meeting with NERIST Director Prof Narendranath S at Lok Bhavan here, an official statement said. Prof Narendranath briefed him on the recent developments on the campus and the measures being taken by the institute to restore normalcy and safeguard the well-being of students and faculty members. Parnaik, who is also the President of the NERIST Society and has been in constant touch with the institute’s administration, faculty members and state police authorities, expressed deep concern over the unfortunate developments.
He stressed the need for appropriate measures to ensure that such incidents do not recur. Emphasising the importance of peace and discipline in educational institutions, the governor said the academic environment of NERIST must be protected at all costs.
Describing NERIST as one of the premier institutions of higher and technical education in the Northeast, he said any disruption to its academic atmosphere adversely affects the aspirations and future of students.
Parnaik reiterated that he had received assurances from the state government that a thorough inquiry would be conducted into the incident and that all those found responsible would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
He said accountability, discipline and respect for institutional values are essential for maintaining harmony and a conducive learning environment.
Expressing confidence in the institution’s resilience, the governor said the NERIST administration, faculty members, students and other stakeholders would work collectively to restore normalcy and uphold the institute’s long-standing tradition of academic excellence and inclusivity.
He urged all concerned to exercise restraint and contribute towards preserving the dignity and reputation of the institution.
NERIST, a deemed university, has been witnessing turbulence in recent weeks following controversies related to 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 concerns over governance and institutional autonomy, prompting calls from various quarters for restoration of a peaceful academic atmosphere and uninterrupted academic activities.
