**Tension Grips Tezpur University Following Controversy Over Tribute to Zubeen Garg**
Guwahati: Tension gripped Tezpur University after students staged massive protests against Vice Chancellor Prof. Shambhu Nath Singh, alleging that he made controversial comments regarding legendary singer Zubeen Garg, whose recent demise has left Assam in mourning.
According to students, Prof. Singh dismissed their demand for a formal condolence programme, reportedly referring to such gestures as “funny things” during an interaction. These remarks sparked outrage on campus, with hundreds of students gathering near the university flagpole late Sunday night, demanding respect for the state government’s mourning directive.
Protesters accused the administration of insensitivity, highlighting that classes, examinations, and student elections continued as usual despite the government’s notification to observe official mourning. They further alleged that the university misled the media by claiming a tribute had already been held, even though the official condolence meeting was scheduled only for September 22.
In response to the escalating protests, the registrar (in-charge) issued a notice announcing a Shradhanjali Anushthan at the Community Hall on Monday afternoon. However, the students remained firm in their demands, calling for an apology and greater accountability from Prof. Singh regarding his alleged remarks.
While the university administration has denied any deliberate disrespect, the incident has triggered a heated debate across Assam about how institutions should honour cultural icons like Zubeen Garg. The controversy underscores the deep emotional connection the community holds for the late singer and raises questions about the responsiveness of educational institutions to public sentiment.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/tezpur-university-erupts-in-protest-over-vcs-remarks-on-late-singer-zubeen-garg-video