The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Meghalaya has called for a central investigation into allegations of issuing fake degrees leveled against the University of Science and Technology of Meghalaya (USTM) by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The BJP, an ally of the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance, stressed the need for a neutral and thorough probe to safeguard students’ futures. Assam CM Sarma accused USTM, which operates a hospital and medical college near the Assam-Meghalaya border, of issuing fake certificates to students.
BJP general secretary Wankitbok Pohshna issued a statement on February 17, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations. “The accusation demands a thorough probe by a neutral agency. Even the slightest suspicion of fake degrees can jeopardize a student’s career. It is the government’s responsibility to uncover the truth and ensure transparency,” he said. Pohshna highlighted the Assam government’s warning to derecognize USTM degrees, which could harm students’ future opportunities. He urged immediate action. “An independent judicial investigation should be commenced without waiting for formal communication,” he added.
According to Pohshna, a central inquiry would clarify the truth. “If proven true, immediate legal action should follow. If false, the investigation would reassure students,” he stated. The controversy is the latest in a series of tensions between the two states. Last year, Sarma accused USTM of “flood jihad” on Guwahati, an allegation the university denied.