Shillong, Feb 19: Chief Secretary DP Wahlang today strongly refuted the claims made by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma that degrees awarded by USTM as ‘fake’.
He said that the degrees awarded by the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) are legitimate.
Speaking to reporters, Wahlang said, “USTM is a state university. It is mandated by the State Legislative Assembly of Meghalaya. The degrees are recognized by the UGC. Therefore, there is no question of them being fake. It is a genuine university, and it is supported by the Government of Meghalaya.”
His comments come in response to recent allegations made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on February 16.
Sarma had accused USTM of large-scale fraud, issuing fake degrees, and financial mismanagement. He claimed that PhDs were being sold, exams lacked credibility, and the institution operated without academic integrity.
Education Minister Rakkam A Sangma had recently said that Assam CM should provide substantial evidence before making such claims.
He had said that while anyone can make allegations, they must be backed by proof.
