Naga student suspended by Kaziranga University after remarks on Zubeen Garg

KOHIMA — Kaziranga University in Assam has suspended a student from Nagaland who was at the centre of a controversy over remarks on the late Assamese singer Zubeen Garg.

The suspension comes amid appeals from Nagaland government and student bodies for calm, following a flare-up at the campus on Saturday night that prompted police intervention.

In an official statement issued on Sunday, the university confirmed that the student had tendered a public apology, expressing deep remorse for his comments.

However, it said, “the university has decided to suspend him from all academic and hostel privileges with immediate effect until further notice, pending further investigation and necessary disciplinary proceedings.”

Also read: Nagaland: Situation at Kaziranga University back to normal hours after unrest triggered by a viral video

The statement reassured stakeholders that the situation within the campus was under control and that all students, faculty and staff remained safe.

It reiterated the university’s zero-tolerance policy towards any activity or remarks that could hurt community sentiments or disturb the academic environment. Students were urged to avoid making inappropriate comments on social media or engaging in actions that could disrupt peace and dignity.

Minister for Higher and Technical Education, Temjen Imna Along, addressed the matter on Sunday at a press conference in Kohima, maintaining that the situation at Kaziranga University had normalised and that Naga students were safe.

He said that the incident originated from comments made by the student, a civil engineering undergraduate from Nagaland, about Zubeen Garg, the popular Assamese singer who died recently in Singapore.

The remarks, perceived as disrespectful, were quickly circulated on social media, sparking anger among Assamese students and members of the public.

By Saturday night, a mob had gathered near the university, with tensions persisting until the early hours of Sunday. Police and district officials intervened to restore calm.

Along said that he had briefed Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and contacted the office of Assam’s chief minister to express gratitude for their swift response. He also thanked MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, Assam Minister Piyush Hazarika, and the district administrations of Jorhat and Mokokchung for their cooperation.

He added that the student in question was being kept in a safe house and would be handed over to his family. More than 400 students from Nagaland enrolled at Kaziranga University were safe, he stressed. “There was no untoward incident last night except for the mob going a little out of control in anger,” the minister said.

Along expressed regret on behalf of the Nagaland government. “Our boy should not have spoken such words. As a fan of the late artist myself, I deeply regret the comments,” he said.

He appealed to Naga students to refrain from emotional outbursts online during this period of mourning in Assam.

Sensitivity urged

The minister underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity for students studying outside Nagaland. “Whether knowingly or unknowingly, such statements in anger or in happiness should not be made. It is completely wrong,” he said, reminding that Zubeen Garg held a special place in the hearts of the Assamese people.

He expressed hope that the university management would view the matter in its context and avoid imposing excessive disciplinary measures.

In its detailed statement, Kaziranga University explained that the student had travelled to Jorhat on Saturday morning.

Unable to find transport while returning, he vented his frustration to roommates upon reaching the hostel and made remarks about Garg that offended Assamese students. It later went viral on social media.

Later that night, groups of students and outsiders entered the hostel premises—angered by the student’s comment. The situation was contained through timely intervention by the superintendent of police, additional SP, ADC, circle officer and OIC of Pulibor in Jorhat.

While calm has since been restored, the university acknowledged demands from students and the public for strict legal action.

The student has issued a written apology to the university community and the people of Assam, stating that he never intended to disrespect the late singer. “I am sorry to all communities of Assam,” the letter read.

NSF helpline

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) also stepped in, urging students and the wider community to remain calm.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the federation maintained that it was closely monitoring developments in coordination with authorities in both states.

“All concerned are requested to refrain from panic, as the respective authorities and stakeholders are actively engaged in addressing the situation and ensuring the safety of the students,” it stated.

The NSF also provided helpline numbers — 8974508102, 9366909754, 9774799123, and 9862267896 — for students requiring emergency assistance.