The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Dr. Nirmalendu Saha, Dean of Life Sciences at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, for allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹3.43 lakh. The arrest took place in Guwahati as part of a trap operation conducted by the CBI. Also apprehended was Pranjal Sharma, a businessman accused of acting as the facilitator in the bribery deal. The payment was reportedly made in exchange for clearing bills related to laboratory and scientific equipment purchased for the university.

According to officials, the CBI launched the operation after receiving credible information about illicit financial dealings linked to the university’s procurement system. Preliminary findings suggest that Sharma acted as an intermediary, collecting bribes on behalf of the professor from suppliers, in return for expediting their payment processes. Investigators believe this may be part of a broader pattern of corruption involving misuse of public funds within academic procurement. The accused were caught red-handed during the operation, confirming suspicions of a kickback arrangement.

Post-arrest, the CBI carried out searches at multiple locations in Shillong and Guwahati to gather supporting evidence and track financial trails. Investigators are now reviewing bank records, mobile communication, and procurement files to determine if additional individuals were involved. The incident has raised concerns over transparency and accountability in government-funded educational institutions. NEHU has yet to issue an official response, but the matter has stirred public demand for reforms in university financial operations. The CBI has registered a formal case and assured that further legal steps will follow based on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.