THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, August 2: Nilamber-Pitamber University (NPU) in Daltonganj finds itself in the grip of escalating unrest, with affiliated colleges in dismay, student organisations protesting loudly, and administrative decisions triggering widespread controversy.
As tensions rise, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) has entered its second day of a hunger strike within the university premises, demanding redressal of a series of grievances. The ongoing protests reflect growing dissatisfaction with the university’s governance under Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Dinesh Kumar Singh.
‘Attachment Orders’ Stir Controversy
At the heart of the unrest lies the university’s increasing use of what it terms “attachment” orders—a newly coined term widely interpreted as informal transfers, even of contract staff. Traditionally, transfers are reserved for serious misconduct, but sources say in recent cases, they are being implemented based on unsubstantiated suspicions.
One such order, reportedly issued at the VC’s directive, was based on allegations of information leaks, yet lacked concrete evidence. “Any mere suspicion is now enough to trigger a transfer,” said a university insider. Offices such as finance and examinations are reportedly losing experienced personnel to constituent colleges, raising concerns about long-term impacts on administrative efficiency.
Exit of Officials Raises Eyebrows
Adding fuel to the fire, at least one senior officer stepped down mid-tenure—an unusual move that has added to the perception of internal instability. Students and staff alike question whether the university is now facing challenges beyond its capacity to manage.
PhD Entrance Row: Inquiry vs. Annulment
Another flashpoint is the controversy surrounding the 2023 PhD entrance examination. While the test was conducted and results declared, allegations of irregularities have led to calls for both a probe and the scrapping of results altogether.
VC Prof Dinesh Kumar Singh remains firm: “An inquiry is understandable, and we have formed a committee. But scrapping the results entirely? That’s not justified,” he said, adding that the administration is acting in a proactive, student-focused manner.
War of Words: VC vs. Student Bodies
While the Vice-Chancellor claims the university is progressing under his leadership, student organisations strongly disagree. “The university is plunging deeper into chaos,” said one student leader, rejecting the VC’s assurances and labelling his decisions as arbitrary and inconsistent with university regulations.
The VC maintains that all decisions have been made in the institution’s best interest, but student groups insist his actions violate the Jharkhand University Act and are lacking in transparency and procedural integrity.
Room for Resolution?
Despite the tension, sources suggest that a peaceful, negotiated resolution remains possible—if both the administration and student bodies show willingness to engage constructively.
For now, however, Nilamber-Pitamber University appears to be navigating one of the most turbulent periods in its history, with no clear end in sight.
