A major administrative crisis has unfolded at the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST) in Arunachal Pradesh, with Director Prof Narendranath S reportedly tendering his resignation on Saturday amid growing controversy over alleged irregularities in staff recruitment.

The development came a day after Registrar MK Camdir and Assistant Registrar Boge Kamduk were suspended following allegations of manipulation and irregularities in the recruitment rules governing non-teaching staff appointments.

The suspensions were reportedly ordered following directives from the Ministry of Education, which is examining academic and administrative matters at the institute. The latest developments have triggered concerns over governance and leadership at one of the region's premier technical institutions.

The NERIST Research Scholars' Association voiced concern over the situation, calling for stability and a peaceful academic atmosphere to ensure that research and academic activities remain unaffected.

Association president John Yigam alleged that the institute had become entangled in internal politics and corruption, claiming that the director was compelled to step down due to pressure from certain individuals within the campus.

However, speaking to India Today NE over the phone, Prof Narendranath S rejected claims that his resignation was forced. He said the suspension of the registrar and assistant registrar was carried out on the orders of the Ministry of Education, Government of India.

The twin suspensions and the director's resignation have intensified scrutiny of NERIST's administration, with questions being raised over recruitment practices and institutional governance. The developments are expected to have significant implications for the institute as authorities continue their inquiry.