Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has intensified his criticism of the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), following the recent arrest of an Assam woman connected to the institution on various charges, including fraud and impersonating a foreign diplomat. Addressing the media on January 25, Sarma reiterated longstanding allegations that USTM is fundamentally fraudulent and cautioned students and parents in Assam against enrolling there. He pointed out that several cases involving fake certificates and cheating are currently pending against the university and its chancellor, Mahbubul Hoque.
Sarma stated, “For the past several days, I have been informing the people of Assam that USTM is known for fraud. The entire system is allegedly built on fraudulent practices.” He referred to a previous controversy concerning a disputed tomb structure on USTM’s campus, claiming that an assurance to demolish it had not been fulfilled, further questioning the institution’s credibility.
The Chief Minister claimed USTM faced accusations related to the issuance of fake Other Backward Classes (OBC) certificates and fraudulent medical documents. He alleged that the institution removed the name of the arrested individual from its official website shortly after the controversy came to light, indicating an attempt to distance itself from her actions.
Sarma emphasized that the woman was apprehended by Assam Police on charges of fraud, impersonation, and using vehicles with forged embassy number plates, suggesting that this latest development bolstered his warning about USTM.
In a pointed advisory, Sarma specifically urged Assam’s Sanatani community not to send their children to USTM, warning that academic certificates earned over several years could become invalid if legal actions proceed. He cautioned, “There is a real possibility that certificates earned over three to four years of study may vanish.”
Additionally, Sarma made serious claims regarding USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque, alleging that his past sources of income may be linked to organizations like Al-Qaeda. While stating, “We have proof,” he did not provide further details.
Reiterating his stance, Sarma urged the public to cease supporting USTM, asserting that the recent arrest has only strengthened his position. The incident has sparked political reactions and increased scrutiny of USTM, even as the institution has yet to respond to these latest allegations.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/video/stop-patronising-ustm-assam-cm-reiterates-fraud-allegations-after-woman-arrested-in-delhi-for-impersonating-as-foreign-diplomat-1336228-2026-01-25?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-01-25 10:57:00
