Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has recently escalated tensions between Assam and Meghalaya by announcing that his government will approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding allegations against the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya’s USTM. Sarma’s accusations stem from claims that the university’s construction activities, particularly hill-cutting, have contributed to severe waterlogging in Guwahati, Assam’s largest city.
Background of the Controversy
On August 12, 224, Sarma publicly stated that USTM’s actions have led to significant environmental degradation, asserting that the university has altered the natural landscape in a manner that directs water flow toward Assam, exacerbating flooding issues during heavy rains. He described the situation as a “flood jihad,” a term he has previously used to characterize what he believes to be deliberate actions causing harm to Assam’s environment. Sarma’s comments have drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Congress, which has labeled his remarks as inflammatory and baseless.
Specific Allegations Against USTM
Sarma’s allegations focus on the university’s construction practice, including the demolition of hills to facilitate the building of new facilities, such as a medical college. He claims that these actions have significantly altered the topography, leading to increased water runoff into Assam during rainstorms. The chief minister pointed to historical statements made by former Congress Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, who had previously identified similar related to water flow from the Jorabat area, suggesting a long-standing problem exacerbated by recent developments.
In response to Sarma’s accusations, USTM has defended its actions, stating that its construction activities are conducted with the necessary permissions from the Meghalaya government and that the university’s campus constitutes only a small fraction of the overall water flow impacting Jorabat and Guwahati.
Political Ramifications
The controversy has ignited a fierce political debate, with Sarma accusing the Congress party of politicizing the issue due to the university’s ownership by Mahbubul Hoque, a Muslim entrepreneur. Sarma’s remarks have led to accusations of communal undertones in his rhetoric, with critics arguing that his comments reflect a broader agenda of divisiveness. Congress leaders have countered Sarma’s claims, suggesting that his focus on USTM is an attempt to distract from his government’s failures in managing the state’s infrastructure and environmental policies.
Responses from Meghalaya
The Meghalaya government has urged Sarma to adopt a more pragmatic approach, emphasizing the need for collaboration between the two states to address environmental concerns rather than escalating tensions. Officials from Meghalaya have expressed their willingness to engage with Assam to find solutions to the flooding issues affecting both states.
Conclusion
The unfolding situation between Assam and Meghalaya over the USTM allegations highlights the complex interplay of environmental management, political rhetoric, and communal sensitivity in the region. As the Assam government prepares to approach the NGT, the outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for inter-state relations and environmental governance in the northeastern region of India. The controversy serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by both state governments in addressing environmental issues while navigating the political landscape.
