In a significant development aimed at quelling tensions between Assam and Meghalaya, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has announced the formation of a joint committee. The committee is tasked with addressing the mounting allegations against the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) and its chancellor, Mahbabul Haque, made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The announcement marks a key step towards resolving the ongoing conflict and preventing further escalation.
USTM Accused of Contributing to Waterlogging in Guwahati
The controversy began last month when Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accused USTM, located in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district near Guwahati, of exacerbating the city’s severe waterlogging issues. Sarma claimed that the university’s construction activities, including the removal of hills for campus expansion, were aggravating water flow problems downstream in Guwahati. USTM has strongly denied these claims, arguing that its campus contributes only minimally to the waterlogging problem in areas like Jorabat, one of the worst-affected zones.
Sensational Accusations of ‘Flood Jihad’
The controversy took an even more dramatic turn when Sarma accused USTM of engaging in what he termed “flood jihad.” According to Sarma, the university’s design and its alleged impact on Guwahati’s water management system were intentional, aimed at causing damage to the city. Sarma even cited the Islamic architecture of USTM’s entrance gate as supposed evidence for his claim. These inflammatory statements have heightened the tension between the two states and brought the issue into the national spotlight.
In addition to the accusations regarding waterlogging, Sarma has also brought forward a separate allegation against USTM Chancellor Mahbabul Haque. Sarma claimed that Haque fraudulently obtained an OBC (Other Backward Classes) certificate from Karimganj in Assam more than three decades ago. The Assam government has announced its intention to file a case against Haque on this matter, further complicating the situation.
Meghalaya Seeks Resolution Through Dialogue
As the situation continued to spiral, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma stepped in, calling for a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to the issue. Sangma has emphasized that dialogue between the two states is the best way forward, stressing the importance of a joint investigation to address the concerns raised by Assam. According to Sangma, the newly formed joint committee will begin its work within a week, with officials from both states working together to conduct a thorough investigation.
The joint committee will consist of officials from both Assam and Meghalaya, and coordination between the chief secretaries of the two states is already underway. Sangma expressed hope that the committee would bring clarity to the issues at hand and pave the way for a friendly settlement. He added that any other concerns that may arise will also be addressed by the committee, ensuring that all aspects of the conflict are thoroughly examined.
Aiming for a Friendly Settlement
Despite the gravity of the allegations, Sangma remains optimistic that a peaceful resolution can be achieved. “We hope the committee would bring clarity and a solution to the issue at stake,” Sangma stated, adding that both sides are keen to avoid further escalation. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of cooperation between the two states, especially given the complex and multifaceted nature of the conflict.
In addition to the waterlogging and fraud allegations, the committee will also investigate any broader issues that may arise during its probe. Sangma indicated that the committee’s scope would not be limited to the specific allegations against USTM and its chancellor but would also look into any underlying factors that may be contributing to tensions between Assam and Meghalaya.
Path Forward for Assam and Meghalaya Relations
The formation of this joint committee represents a crucial step in managing the often-contentious relationship between Assam and Meghalaya. Both states share a long and complex history, and disputes over land, resources, and infrastructure have periodically strained their relations. However, with both governments committed to dialogue and cooperation, there is hope that the USTM dispute will not lead to a more serious breakdown in relations.
The joint committee’s findings will play a pivotal role in determining the future course of action. If the investigation confirms the validity of Assam’s accusations, there could be significant implications for USTM and its leadership. Conversely, if USTM’s defenses are proven correct, Assam may be required to rethink its approach. Either way, the committee’s findings will likely set a precedent for how future disputes between the two states are handled.
A Step Towards Resolution
As Assam and Meghalaya prepare for the launch of this joint committee, both states appear ready to work together to resolve their differences. While the stakes are high, there is optimism that this collaborative approach will bring about a lasting solution, fostering peace and cooperation between the neighboring states. With the joint committee’s work set to begin shortly, all eyes are now on the progress of the investigation and the eventual outcome of this critical dispute.
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