Meghalaya Launches Investigation into Forest Encroachment Allegations Against Tech University

The Meghalaya government has launched an inquiry into allegations that the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) illegally occupied over 25 hectares of forest land, based on a report by the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC). Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong confirmed a committee—including members from the Pollution Control Board, Mining and Geology Department, and district administration—will inspect the sites and submit findings by October 15. The CEC report cited violations of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and recommended penalties of ₹150.35 crore. USTM, founded in 2008, is a leading private university in Meghalaya, and the probe’s outcome could impact its operations.