Meghalaya CM supports USTM in controversy

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has defended the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) amid ongoing controversy. Sangma emphasized the university's commitment to high standards of education and the high number of students using its facilities. He also addressed the arrest of Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque, who was arrested on charges of allowing unfair means in exams. Sangma promised that the case would be handled according to legal procedures.

In an interview with journalists, CM Sangma reiterated that the university has always adhered to all laid-down procedures, rules, and laws while ensuring high standards of education. "I have said this time and again without any fear," said Sangma, referring to the quality of education and mentioning that a lot of students are availing the institute's facilities.

Not mentioning the arrest of Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque, Chief Minister referred to a recent case involving the university and made it clear that it comes under the jurisdiction of the Assam police. He stopped there, since the case was still pending in another state.

Sangma promised that law would take its course and everything would be dealt with as per legal procedures. USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque was sent to judicial custody by the Sonitpur Chief Judicial Magistrate's Court at Tezpur on March 14, after his arrest by the district police.

Hoque was arrested on charges of promising students that he would permit unfair means in exams. CJM H J Kashyap heard the arguments of Haque's lawyer as well as the public prosecutor, and ordered that he be produced in court on March 18.