Guwahati, March 3: University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) Chancellor Mahbabul Hoque has refuted allegations of financial irregularities, asserting that 80% of students receive free admission under the “Vision 50” initiative, a welfare scheme aimed at supporting underprivileged students across the Northeast.
“Vision 50 is not a business venture but a part of the ERD Foundation’s mission to guide rural students. There is no question of taking money,” Hoque told reporters after being remanded to judicial custody by the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s court in Sribhumi district on Saturday.
Hoque was produced before the court following the expiry of his five-day police custody on Sunday. Addressing the allegations leveled by the Assam government, he stated, “It’s a legal matter and will be argued in court.”
Responding to claims of examination malpractice, Hoque defended the university’s stance, asserting that while some students attempted to use unfair means, USTM teachers intervened to prevent it. “We should be awarding our teachers for maintaining integrity, not questioning them,” he said.
Downplaying concerns over the case, Hoque insisted there was no personal vendetta against him and invited sceptics to visit USTM: “Nobody is targeting me. You are welcome to see our beautiful university for yourself.”
Hoque and five other teachers were arrested following an FIR filed by a circle officer of Patharkandi Revenue Circle, which alleged that student promotions were granted in exchange for bribes. Those arrested include Hiramani Saikia (Principal, Central Public School), Vijay Dutta, Rezak Ali, Imdadur Rahman and Numan Ahmed (teachers).
Meanwhile, the Gauhati High Court is set to deliver its judgment on Hoque’s first case on Monday, while his bail petition for the second case will be moved on the same day.
