Controversy Surrounds USTM's Forest Land, Legal Battles, and Leadership

The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has voiced serious allegations against the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), claiming it is constructed on disputed forest land. Sarma indicated that the issue has reached the Supreme Court, and its resolution lies in the hands of the Meghalaya government.

Himanta Biswa Sarma has previously criticized Mahbabul Haque, USTM's chancellor, who faced legal troubles earlier, accused of promising students unfair exam advantages, leading to his arrest and subsequent release on bail. Haque's controversial profile further complicates his position as the head of the institution.

The USTM controversy also ties to broader issues, involving multiple legal cases against Haque for various allegations. Sarma expressed his intention against the institution, emphasizing its commercialization of education and connecting it to city flooding issues allegedly stemming from the university's geographical location.

(With inputs from agencies.)