The All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU) has expressed serious concern over the controversy surrounding the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) of Manipur University, stating that the issue has created confusion among students, teachers, employees, and the general public.
In a press statement issued by AMSU Publicity and Information Secretary Yumnam Clinton Mangang, the student body said the ongoing dispute raises important questions regarding interpretation of the Manipur University Act, 2005, university statutes, and the role of the Ministry of Education in appointment of the Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge).
AMSU pointed out that under Statute 2(6) of the University Statutes, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor, or in the absence of one, the senior-most professor, is authorised to perform the duties of the Vice-Chancellor when the office falls vacant.
The union noted that the Registrar of Manipur University had issued an order on May 6, 2026 handing over charge of Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) to Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam of the Physics Department following completion of the tenure of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor.
However, AMSU stated that another notification issued on May 7 created confusion by mentioning that Prof. Sumitra Phanjoubam would continue as Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) until she attains the age of 65 years, a new Vice-Chancellor assumes office, or further instructions are received from the Ministry of Education.
The organisation further questioned the subsequent appointment of Prof. Ganga Prasad Parsain of the Commerce Department as Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge) on May 14, 2026, and sought clarification on whether the Ministry of Education could override statutory provisions relating to appointment through the senior-most professor.
AMSU questioned why the university authorities allegedly failed to initiate communication and approval processes with the competent authorities, including the Ministry of Education and the Visitor of the University, before expiry of the regular Vice-Chancellor’s tenure.
The student body stated that timely coordination could have prevented the present confusion and conflicting interpretations regarding the appointment process.
Seeking transparency and accountability, AMSU demanded constitution of a High-Level Fact-Finding Committee to thoroughly examine the matter and clarify the legal and administrative position regarding appointment of the Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge).
The organisation also expressed concern over the silence of the Manipur University Teachers’ Association (MUTA), stating that the issue directly concerns the seniority and institutional standing of professors within the university.
AMSU further alleged that certain vested-interest groups within the university were attempting to manipulate the controversy for personal gain and warned against activities that could undermine the institution’s integrity and academic environment.
Appealing for restraint, AMSU urged teachers, students, employees, and all stakeholders not to disrupt academic activities, examinations, admissions, research work, or the academic calendar during the ongoing controversy.
The student body stated that the academic future of thousands of students in conflict-affected Manipur must not be compromised and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding students’ interests and ensuring transparent and democratic functioning of Manipur University.