Itanagar, Jun 23: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt General (Retd) K T Parnaik emphasized the need to preserve peace, discipline and academic integrity at North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) during a meeting with NERIST Director Narendranath S at Raj Bhavan here on Tuesday.
During the meeting, Prof Narendranath briefed the Governor on the recent incidents that occurred on the NERIST campus and informed him about the measures being taken by the institute to restore normalcy and ensure the well-being of students and faculty members.
The Governor, who is also the President of the NERIST Society, expressed deep concern over the developments and stressed the need for appropriate preventive measures to ensure that such incidents are not repeated in the future.
Highlighting the importance of maintaining a conducive academic atmosphere, Parnaik said NERIST is one of the premier institutions of higher and technical education in the Northeast, with a long-standing legacy of promoting scientific temper, innovation and skilled human resource development. Any disruption to the academic environment, he said, adversely impacts the aspirations and future of students.
“The interests of students and the reputation of the institution must remain paramount,” the Governor emphasized, while urging all stakeholders to work towards safeguarding the institute’s academic culture.
Reiterating his commitment to protecting the sanctity of educational institutions, Parnaik said he has received assurances from the state government that a thorough inquiry into the incident will be conducted and that those found responsible for the unruly episode will face action in accordance with the law.
He underscored the importance of accountability, discipline and respect for institutional values in maintaining harmony and ensuring a healthy learning environment.
Expressing confidence in the resilience of the NERIST community, the Governor said the institute’s administration, faculty, students and other stakeholders would work together to restore normalcy and uphold its tradition of academic excellence and inclusivity.
He also appealed to all concerned to exercise restraint and contribute positively towards preserving the dignity and reputation of one of the region’s most respected educational institutions.
It may be mentioned that NERIST Director Prof Narendranath S had reportedly submitted his resignation on May 29 amid controversy surrounding administrative decisions at the institute.
According to reports, the resignation was tendered following alleged pressure from certain external organizations, which had staged a gherao of the Director's office and demanded the revocation of suspension orders issued against two officials. The suspensions were reportedly carried out in compliance with a communication from the Ministry of Education.
However, no official statement regarding the final status of the resignation has been issued by the institute.