Shillong: The Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) on Tuesday urged Meghalaya Director General of Police, Idashisha Nongrang, to initiate action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over his controversial remarks on the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM).
HITO president Donbok Dkhar, in a letter to the DGP, condemned the Assam CM for his remarks that the USTM was involved in issuing fake certificates and degrees, including PhDs, which are supposedly being “sold” without conducting proper examinations.
HITO stated, “The Meghalaya government, through official press statements issued on February 20 and 27, firmly refuted these allegations. Both Chief Secretary and Chief Minister Conrad Sangma provided reassurance that USTM is fully compliant with all necessary regulations, holds the proper approvals, and adheres to established norms and procedures.”
They unequivocally stated that all degrees and certificates issued by the university are authentic and legitimate, Dkhar said.
Given the state government’s clear stance, the HTO urged the DGP to take necessary action against the CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for unjustly tarnishing the image of the state university, which has made significant contributions to the educational landscape, including the establishment of the first private medical college in Meghalaya.
“These baseless claims have unfortunately instigated doubts and anxiety among current students who are diligently pursuing their degrees at USTM, as well as potential students contemplating their future enrollment. They deserve an environment of trust and integrity as they work towards fulfilling their career aspirations,” HITO said.
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Dkhar further stated that timely and decisive action by the DGP’s office would help restore the dignity of the institution that serves the community with dedication.
