Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has ignited a fresh controversy by alleging that the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) has been built on forest land. Speaking at a public event on Friday, he warned that the university might not survive the next two years if legal and environmental issues surrounding its land are not resolved.
Sarma said the government is reviewing all documentation related to the university’s land acquisition. He emphasized that institutions cannot violate environmental norms and that the law will take its course. His comments have sent shockwaves across the education sector in the region, which has seen rapid growth in private universities over the past decade.
CM Questions USTM’s Legality
Addressing the gathering, Sarma claimed that the sprawling campus of USTM encroaches on notified forest land. He added that the government would not compromise on environmental conservation, even for educational institutions.
“USTM has come up on forest land. If they do not resolve this issue, the university may not exist in the next two years,” Sarma said. His remarks signal the possibility of a major crackdown on institutions violating land and environmental regulations.
Officials from the forest department have reportedly begun initial assessments to verify the CM’s claims. If the land is proven to be encroached, the university could face eviction orders or stringent penalties under forest conservation laws.
University Administration Yet to Respond
As of Friday evening, USTM authorities had not issued an official response to the Chief Minister’s remarks. The silence has triggered speculation about the university’s preparedness to handle a potential legal battle.
Education experts and students have expressed concern over the uncertainty. Many fear that any drastic action could affect ongoing courses and the future of thousands of students currently enrolled.
Environmental Concerns in Focus
The allegations against USTM have revived the debate on forest land encroachments in Assam and Meghalaya. Both states have witnessed several cases of private and commercial establishments allegedly infringing upon protected land.
Environmentalists argue that unchecked development in ecologically sensitive zones could worsen deforestation and wildlife displacement. “If the CM’s statement is true, it reflects the failure of regulatory oversight. However, forest land is a public resource and cannot be diverted without due process,” said a Guwahati-based environmental activist.
Additionally, the Forest Conservation Act strictly prohibits non-forest activities on notified land without central government approval. Moreover, any violation can result in heavy penalties and demolition of unauthorized structures.
Political and Educational Implications
Sarma’s statement comes at a time when the Assam government is pushing for stricter land management policies to curb encroachments. Also, his remarks could spark a political confrontation between Assam and Meghalaya, as USTM is a prominent educational institution that draws students from across the Northeast.
Opposition parties have accused the government of using such statements to intimidate private educational institutions. Congress leaders said that while environmental laws must be respected, the future of students should not be jeopardized by political rhetoric.
Students and Parents Seek Clarity
Students at USTM expressed anxiety after the Chief Minister’s remarks went viral. Many are worried about the continuity of their courses if the university faces legal challenges. Furthermore, parents have demanded that the government provide a clear roadmap to protect students’ interests.
“We are here to study, not to get caught in land disputes,” said a postgraduate student. Others appealed to the university management to issue a public clarification to avoid panic.
What Lies Ahead for USTM
The controversy highlights the growing tension between rapid infrastructure development and environmental compliance in the Northeast. Although, if the forest department confirms encroachment. Also, USTM could face a protracted legal battle that may decide its fate.
Chief Minister Sarma’s warning serves as a reminder to all institutions about the importance of legal and environmental clearances. For now, the future of one of the region’s leading private universities hangs in the balance.
Reference to the Forest Conservation Act for legal context.
