Shillong: The Meghalaya unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a key partner in the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance, has called for a central agency investigation into serious allegations against a private university in the state.
The accusations, made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, claim that the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has been issuing fake degrees and certificates.
Sarma’s allegations involve USTM, which runs a 1,000-bed hospital and medical college on the Assam-Meghalaya border.
He has accused the institution of granting fraudulent academic credentials to students.
BJP General Secretary Wankitbok Pohshna stated, “This accusation is grave and demands an impartial investigation by a neutral agency. Even the slightest suspicion of fake degrees and certificates can have devastating consequences on a student’s future, potentially ruining many promising careers. In such a scenario, the government must step in to investigate and ensure that the truth is brought to light.”
Pohshna emphasised that the allegations, coming from a sitting Chief Minister of a neighbouring state, add weight to the issue and make it a matter of urgent concern.
“The Assam government has also warned of revoking the recognition of USTM degrees, which could have a far-reaching impact, jeopardizing the future of many students. The government should not wait for an official notice, but should immediately initiate an independent judicial inquiry,” he added.
According to the BJP leader, the investigation would serve two key purposes: to take swift legal action if the allegations prove true, and to alleviate the concerns of students if the accusations are found to be unfounded.
This is not the first time USTM has been at the centre of controversy. Last year, Sarma accused the university of being involved in a so-called “flood jihad” in Guwahati, which the institution vehemently denied.
The BJP, which has two MLAs, is part of the alliance government led by Conrad K. Sangma’s National People’s Party, which holds 32 seats in the 60-member Legislative Assembly.
