In a late night joint operation of police and special task force (STF) on February 21, arrested University Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) Chancellor Mahbubul Haque from his residence in Guwahati’s Ghoramara.
According to sources, the USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Haque arrested in linked to allegation of taking money from individual in exchange for unfair means during the CBSE Class 12 Physics examination.
A total of 274 students appeared for the Physics exam at Kendriya Vidyalaya in Assam’s Sribhumi district, including 45 from the school and 214 from the ERD Group. Allegedly, arrangements made to help ERD Group students during the exam in exchange for money. However, when they did not receive the promised assistance, chaos erupted at the exam center.
It is alleged that students at Central Public School, Patharkandi, run by the USTM group. And it also alleged that they were promised help in the 30-mark MCQ section of the exam.
“Many, mostly from Goalpara, were strategically placed there to gain an unfair advantage in exams. When external invigilators refused to comply, chaos ensued—teachers were locked inside, prompting police intervention,” said Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, via post of social media.
“We were waiting for help during the exam at Central Public School. Local students were given answers for the MCQs, but we, who traveled over 400 km, did not get the help we were promised,” the students told the media.
Following complaints of malpractice, the police and STF launched an investigation into the institution’s involvement. Based on the complaints Mahbubul Haque detained and taken to Pan Bazar Police station, while his wife also spotted.
Officials believe more details may emerge as the investigation continues. Hoque is now being taken to Sribhumi for further questioning. His family has not made any statements about the incident.
Recently, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused USTM of fraud, issuing fake degrees, and financial mismanagement. His comments came as concerns grew over the recent firing of employees at the private university.
CM Sarma also strongly criticized USTM and its Chancellor, Mahbubul Hoque.
He stated also stated, “Even his caste certificate is fake. How can our intellectuals praise someone who holds a false OBC certificate?”
CM Sarma questioned USTM’s academic credibility, claiming that degrees, including PhDs, were being sold. “PhDs are also sold there. There are no proper exams, no real degrees—nothing,” he said.
 on February 21, arrested USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Haque.){kind=link}