Assam CM’s ‘Flood Jihad’ Remark Sparks Controversy; USTM Responds

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma accused the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), of causing urban flooding in Guwahati by expanding their campus through deforestation, calling it a “Flood Jihad.” Assam Pradesh Mahila Congress President Mira Borthakur suggested Sarma’s remark might stem from personal disputes with the university’s owner. USTM denied the allegations, stating they have water management systems in place and contribute minimally to the city’s flooding. The controversy follows heavy rains on August 5, which led to severe flooding in Guwahati.