2025-11-30 · News

Guwahati – The Assam Legislative Assembly witnessed a dramatic scene recently as members of the Congress and CPI(M) walked out in protest after Speaker Biswajit Daimary refused to allow a discussion regarding Tezpur University. The incident has brought the focus on the functioning of higher education institutions in the state and the role of the government in addressing related issues.

The session began with the opposition seeking to raise concerns about Tezpur University. The specific details of the intended discussion weren't immediately clear, but the core of the matter appeared to center around grievances and potential irregularities within the university's administration or academic structure. These issues, the opposition argued, warranted immediate attention and a thorough discussion on the floor of the Assembly.

Speaker Biswajit Daimary, however, ruled against allowing the discussion. His decision cited procedural guidelines or a determination that the matter was either outside the purview of the Assembly's immediate responsibilities or inappropriate for discussion at that particular time. The Speaker's decision triggered immediate protest from the Congress and CPI(M) MLAs. Arguing that the matter was of public importance and directly impacted the educational landscape of Assam, they accused the Speaker of stifling debate and preventing the Assembly from fulfilling its oversight role.

Following the Speaker’s refusal and after expressing their dissent, the Congress and CPI(M) legislators decided to walk out of the Assembly as a mark of protest. This action underscored their dissatisfaction with the Speaker’s decision and highlighted the growing tensions between the ruling party and the opposition on matters related to governance and accountability.

The walkout, while a symbolic gesture, carries significant weight in the context of Assam's political landscape. It serves as a reminder of the crucial role the opposition plays in holding the government accountable and advocating for the interests of the people. It also raises questions about the extent to which discussions on vital issues, such as education, are being prioritized within the Assembly.

Tezpur University, located in the Sonitpur district, is a central university established by an Act of Parliament in 1994. As a prominent institution of higher learning in Assam, developments within the university and any related controversies inevitably draw public attention. The attempt to discuss matters related to the university in the Assembly reflects the importance of this institution to the state.

The incident in the Assam Assembly underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the autonomy and accountability of higher education institutions. While universities are expected to function independently and maintain academic freedom, they are also subject to government oversight and public scrutiny, especially when issues of mismanagement or irregularities arise.

The repercussions of this walkout are likely to extend beyond the immediate session of the Assembly. The opposition is expected to continue to raise concerns about Tezpur University and other issues related to higher education in Assam. The government, on the other hand, will likely emphasize its commitment to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the state's educational institutions.

This event serves as a significant indicator of the political climate in Assam and the ongoing efforts to address issues of governance and public concern through legislative means. It highlights the delicate balance between the government's authority and the opposition's right to question and hold it accountable.