The Meghalaya government and the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) have strongly refuted Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s allegations that the university is a “fake institution.” In response, Meghalaya’s Education Minister Rakkam Sangma and Chief Secretary DP Wahlang urged the Assam CM to provide concrete evidence to support his claims.
This controversy has sparked a debate on higher education governance, the credibility of institutions, and the role of regulatory bodies like the University Grants Commission (UGC) in maintaining academic standards.
Meghalaya Government’s Firm Response
Meghalaya’s Education Minister Rakkam Sangma dismissed the allegations outright, asserting that USTM is a recognized state university and operates within the legal framework established by the UGC. He challenged the Assam CM to present evidence to back his claim. “The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) is a state university. We take education very seriously in Meghalaya. If someone is making such allegations, they should back them up with proof.”
Further reinforcing the state’s position, Chief Secretary DP Wahlang clarified that all degrees issued by USTM are recognized by the UGC, which ensures that the university meets the required educational standards. “All degrees of USTM are recognized by the UGC, so the claim of fake degrees does not arise.”
USTM’s Credentials and National Recognition
The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has categorically rejected the allegations, emphasizing its strong academic standing, research contributions, and institutional credibility.
Since its establishment in 2011, USTM has made remarkable strides in higher education and research. The university issued a detailed statement countering the allegations: “USTM, with all statutory credentials, has been contributing immensely to higher education, research, and social welfare. Such statements defame the university and question the credibility of the highest statutory and accreditation bodies of the Government of India.”
The university further highlighted its top-tier accreditation and national rankings, which affirm its standing as a reputable institution:
- NAAC A+ Accreditation – One of the few private universities in the Northeast to achieve this recognition.
- Top 200 Universities in India – USTM was ranked among the best institutions in the country in recent national rankings.
- 52nd in the Nature Index – A global indicator of scientific research output, underscoring USTM’s contribution to academic research.
“We urge the Assam Chief Minister to engage in a fact-based discourse and acknowledge USTM’s contributions to higher education. We welcome any inquiry or investigation by any authority for cross-verification of facts.”
USTM’s Academic Rigor and Research Standards
USTM has emphasized that its academic programs, particularly PhD and postgraduate courses, adhere strictly to UGC guidelines and are regularly reviewed by external experts.“Our PhD programs follow the latest UGC regulations and maintain a rigorous and transparent research process, often exceeding the standards set by premier institutions.”
To ensure academic integrity and high-quality education, USTM collaborates with top-tier universities and research institutions across India. External academic experts from IIT Guwahati, Tezpur University, North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), AMU, JNU, Delhi University, and Gauhati University actively participate in quality evaluation processes.
Meghalaya’s Commitment to Higher Education
The Meghalaya government has placed a strong emphasis on higher education development, allocating substantial resources to educational infrastructure, faculty recruitment, and research initiatives.
The government has consistently supported private universities like USTM, which play a crucial role in providing quality education to students across the Northeast region.
Why This Controversy Matters?
The USTM controversy highlights several key issues:
- Institutional Credibility: Accusations against a UGC-recognized university raise concerns about misinformation in the education sector.
- Higher Education in Northeast India: Universities like USTM have been instrumental in bridging the education gap in the region.
- Political Implications: Allegations of a “fake university” can damage reputations and affect student admissions, creating unnecessary panic among aspiring scholars.
- Role of Regulatory Bodies: The UGC, NAAC, and other accreditation agencies are responsible for ensuring academic quality and institutional accountability.
A Call for Evidence-Based Discussion
The Meghalaya government and USTM have categorically rejected the allegations made by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. With UGC recognition, NAAC A+ accreditation, and national rankings, USTM has proven its academic excellence and commitment to higher education.
The onus is now on the Assam CM to provide substantial proof to support his claims. In the absence of evidence, such allegations could be seen as politically motivated and damaging to the education sector.