22 August 2024: In a move that has sparked controversy, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has hinted at legal measures that could bar graduates of the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), from applying for government jobs in Assam. The Chief Minister’s remarks came amid ongoing tensions between his government and the university, which he described as a growing threat to the state’s established educational institutions, reports Assam Tribune.
USTM, a private university established in 2008 and led by Mahbubul Hoque, has been rapidly expanding, with the upcoming launch of a medical college being seen as particularly challenging to Assam’s educational landscape. The Chief Minister expressed concerns over the competition USTM poses, especially to Assam’s premier institutions like Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
“We are in discussions to find legal means to ensure that students graduating from USTM are not allowed to apply for jobs in Assam,” Sarma stated.
He further mentioned that USTM’s certificates, issued by an institution outside Assam, put local students at a disadvantage. The government is exploring the possibility of requiring USTM graduates to take an additional examination before they can be considered for government positions within the state.
During a press interaction, Sarma’s criticism of USTM became sharper, particularly concerning the new medical college. He accused the university of using deceptive practices, such as presenting “fake patients” during inspections by the National Medical Council. “The day the medical college is completed, they will work to destroy GMCH,” Sarma warned, urging Assamese students to avoid enrolling in USTM in favour of state-run institutions where education is free.
Despite these allegations, USTM has achieved notable academic success. In the 9th edition of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024, USTM was ranked among India’s top 200 universities. This recognition marks the third consecutive year of its inclusion in the rankings, making it the only private university from the northeastern region to achieve such a distinction.
Interestingly, Sarma had once supported USTM’s initiatives. In 2021, he inaugurated the “Srimanta Sankardeva Block” at USTM and participated in its 11th Foundation Day celebrations, where he was honoured by the university community.
