Guwahati, 28 February (HS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has anticipated a prolonged jail sentence for Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM). Addressing the media on Friday, CM Sarma affirmed that Hoque is expected to remain behind bars for a significant duration.

Currently, Hoque is in police custody, linked to an alleged examination fraud. Reports indicate that he has transported to Guwahati today for further questioning. The controversy has triggered widespread reactions as investigative proceedings continue.

As per the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) court’s directive, Hoque has been placed under four-day police remand. The case, lodged at Patharkandi police station (Case No. 55), encompasses several provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Public Administration Prohibition Act.

Alongside Hoque, USTM Vice Chancellor, Central Public School Principal Hiramani Saikia, and educators Vijay Dutta, Rezak Ali, Numan Ahmed, and Imdadur Rahman have also been remanded for four days. However, another related case (Case No. 54) saw bail and remand pleas being rejected by the court.

CM Sarma previously disclosed details of the alleged exam fraud tied to USTM, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Assam Police is probing the case, and we urge cooperation from all concerned, he stated.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash