Eminent Muslims Write to PM Modi Expressing Concern Over Arrest of USTM Chancellor
A group of prominent Muslim personalities have written to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, voicing their deep concern over the arrest of Mahbubul Hoque, the chancellor of Assam’s University of Science and Technology (USTM). Hoque was taken into custody from his Guwahati residence early on Saturday morning, sparking outrage among civil society members and academics.
Arrest without Charge-Sheet or Warrant
The Citizens for Fraternity group, which includes former Chief Election Commissioner SY Quraishi, former Delhi Lt Governor Najeeb Jung, former Aligarh Muslim University Vice Chancellor Zameer Uddin Shah, former MP Shahid Siddiqui, and industrialist Saeed Sherwani, has strongly condemned the arrest, terming it "vendetta" and "part of a larger conspiracy to demoralize progressive individuals and institutions."
Serious Allegations and Lack of Due Process
The group has criticized the arrest for being made without an initial charge-sheet or arrest warrant, with Hoque being lodged in Karimganj Jail, over 300 km from Guwahati. Furthermore, the charge-sheet filed by the authorities only recently accuses Hoque of encouraging mass cheating in Class 12 exams, which the group believes is "patently unjust."
Outrage Over Timing and Allegations
The group has also expressed outrage over the timing of the arrest, which took place on a Saturday morning, making it difficult for Hoque to secure redress through legal channels. They view this as a deliberate attempt by the Government of Assam to undermine USTM, a respected institution of higher learning, and its founder.
Call for Justice and Redressal
In their letter to PM Modi, the group has urged the Prime Minister to ensure that justice is served in this matter and that due process is followed. They have also called for an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Hoque’s arrest and the allegations made against him.
What Happens Next?
The development has sent shockwaves among academics, intellectuals, and civil society members, who are demanding an immediate end to what they term as "witch-hunt" and "persecution" of Hoque and USTM. As the investigation unfolds, eyes will be on the authorities to ensure that due process is followed, and that the integrity of the institution and the accused are upheld.
Source: [https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/02/28/eminent-muslims-write-to-pm-modi-express-concern/]
Category: MEGHALAYA
Tags: USTM, Mahbubul Hoque, Arrest, Cheating, Vendetta, Due Process
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/02/28/eminent-muslims-write-to-pm-modi-express-concern/
Category : MEGHALAYA
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-02-28 04:06:00
