University Chancellor Granted Interim Bail Amid Controversy

The Gauhati High Court granted interim bail to Mahbabul Haque, Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya. Haque was arrested for allegedly allowing unfair exam practices. The court imposed conditions for his release, including cooperation with the investigation and a bail bond, with the next hearing scheduled for April 9.

The Gauhati High Court on Monday granted interim bail to Mahbabul Haque, Chancellor of Meghalaya's University of Science and Technology (USTM). Haque faced arrest after allegations surfaced about his involvement in promising students exams would permit unfair means to increase their scores.

Justice Mitali Thakuria, presiding over the matter, stipulated several conditions for Haque's interim release. Among them were requirements for Haque to cooperate fully with upcoming investigations, appear whenever required by authorities, and abstain from influencing individuals connected with the case. A bail bond of Rs 50,000 and an equal surety accompanied his release impositions.

Haque, previously denied bail on March 18 due to non-bailable sections, was taken into 14-day judicial custody on February 22. His release marks a development in the ongoing investigation, though scrutiny around his past actions and allegations persists, spotlighted by previous controversies, including a fraudulent OBC certificate acquisition and accusations connected to local flooding issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)