Shillong, September 4, 2025 – The Meghalaya High Court has finally brought closure to a 17-year-old controversy involving Dr. Ampareen M. Lyngdoh, now quashing the case against her over alleged irregularities in the appointment of school teachers during her tenure as Education Minister in the Congress-led government under then Chief Minister Dr. D.D. Lapang.

The Allegations

The case stemmed from events in 2008–2009, when allegations emerged that the list of selected teachers published by the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBoSE) had been tampered with. Critics claimed that marks awarded by the Interview Board were altered and that qualified candidates were replaced with others, allegedly under the influence of Dr. Ampareen.

The controversy drew strong criticism from opposition parties, civil society groups, and the public. Documents purportedly showed that marks had been changed and recommendations manipulated, sparking one of Meghalaya’s longest-running legal and political battles.

The Legal Battle and Final Judgment

From the outset, Dr. Ampareen denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that the charges were politically motivated. Her defense was led by Senior Advocate Salman Khurshid, assisted by Sanjita Ain, who argued before the Meghalaya High Court that due process had been followed.

On September 3, 2025, the High Court quashed the case in its entirety, putting an end to years of litigation and speculation.

Dr. Ampareen’s Reaction

Expressing relief after the verdict, Dr. Ampareen said:
“I am grateful that after 17 long years of allegations, the truth has finally prevailed. This verdict is a reminder to all of us that justice may take time, but it will always prevail if we persevere. I especially thank Salman Khurshid and Sanjita Ain for their tireless efforts in defending my name and reputation. This victory is not just personal, but also a vindication against baseless accusations that have caused me much pain as a minister and as a public representative over the years.”

Public Significance

The judgment brings clarity to an issue that had overshadowed Meghalaya’s education system and political discourse for nearly two decades. By laying one of the state’s most high-profile recruitment controversies to rest, the ruling closes a chapter that had long raised questions about fairness and transparency in government appointments.