Tensions Mount as TMC Student Union Gheraoes Calcutta University VC

Members of the Trinamool Congress student union gheraoed Calcutta University's interim vice-chancellor Shanta Dutta for over six hours in protest against her holding a syndicate meeting after her term had expired. The protest involved around 40 students and saw the VC's office being locked, with university officials urging students to consider the health of senior academics.

In a dramatic turn of events, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) student union orchestrated a gherao of Calcutta University's interim vice-chancellor, Shanta Dutta, for more than six hours on Friday. Their protest was catalyzed by Dutta's decision to hold a syndicate meeting despite her administrative term having expired.

TMC Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) spokesperson Abhirup Chakraborty disclosed to PTI that Dutta continues to undertake administrative responsibilities, although her six-month tenure has lapsed, and the Supreme Court has directed the formation of a search committee for a new permanent VC.

Approximately 40 students chanted slogans and barricaded the Darbhanga Building housing the offices of the VC, Pro-VC, and Registrar. Commencing around 3:30 pm, the gherao extended late into the evening, with senior university officials pleasuring the students to factor in the health conditions of the senior academics involved. Dutta's appointment by Governor C V Ananda Bose faced criticism from the higher education department for lack of prior consultation.

(With inputs from agencies.)