Questions over Nepal-based experience claim cast shadow on Assistant Professor appointment process at Mahatma Gandhi Central University

By Sagar Suraj

MOTIHARI: Fresh controversy has surfaced around the ongoing faculty recruitment process at Mahatma Gandhi Central University (MGCU), with allegations relating to the authenticity of an experience certificate submitted by Dr. Sneha Chaurasia for the post of Assistant Professor drawing attention within academic circles.

Documents accessed by Border News Mirror (BNM) indicate that Dr. Chaurasia had submitted an experience certificate purportedly issued by a Nepal-based management college, claiming nearly seven years of teaching experience. 

However, an independent verification conducted by the newspaper has reportedly raised questions regarding both the duration of service and the salary details mentioned in the document.

Sources associated with the Nepal institution, requesting anonymity, claimed that Dr. Chaurasia had worked there only for around six months. They further alleged that the salary figures reflected in the certificate appeared inconsistent with the institution’s pay structure, maintaining that even senior faculty members were not paid salaries of such scale in Indian currency.

The controversy intensified after another set of employment-related documents surfaced during the investigation.

 The records allegedly show that Dr. Chaurasia was associated with a school in Motihari during the same period for which the Nepal-based experience was claimed. 

The overlapping timelines have prompted demands for an official verification of the credentials submitted in the recruitment process.

The latest allegations have also revived discussion over earlier controversies linked to Dr. Chaurasia’s tenure as Guest Faculty at MGCU. 

University sources and former students alleged that complaints regarding her classroom conduct had earlier been submitted before the administration. Audio clips purportedly related to those allegations had circulated locally at the time, though the university did not publicly disclose the outcome of any internal inquiry.

Sources familiar with the matter claimed that more than 40 students had earlier raised concerns regarding her conduct, following which her engagement as Guest Faculty was reportedly discontinued.

Neither Dr. Chaurasia nor university authorities have issued an official response to the allegations so far.
 The controversy is expected to intensify as concerns over transparency and verification in academic appointments continue to attract wider attention.

Sagar Suraj 
MOTIHARI : In a significant breakthrough along the sensitive Indo-Nepal border belt, the Bihar Police has uncovered an alleged interstate arms smuggling module operating in East Champaran district.

Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team led by the Dhaka police carried out a raid that resulted in the seizure of two pistols, a country-made firearm, two magazines and five live cartridges, according to an official statement issued by the office of the Superintendent of Police, Motihari.

Two women were arrested during the operation, while efforts are underway to trace and apprehend other members of the network believed to have links across the border region.

The operation assumes significance given the strategic and security sensitivity of the Indo-Nepal frontier, where illegal movement of arms and contraband has remained a recurring concern for enforcement agencies. Officials indicated that sustained surveillance and coordinated field intelligence played a crucial role in the success of the raid.

Police sourfces attributed the swift action to the active monitoring of Sikrahana DSP and the close operational coordination maintained under the leadership of East Champaran Superintendent of Police Swarna Prabhat. The involvement of STF personnel alongside local police units reflected a multi-agency approach aimed at dismantling organised criminal networks in the border districts.

Investigators are now examining possible interstate and cross-border connections linked to the recovered weapons.

Sit-in gained national attention as prominent figures, including Shahnawaj Hasan, National General Secretary of the Bharti Shramjivi Patrakar Sangh (BSPS), and Ajay Kumar, Bihar BSPS chief extended their support by joining the demonstration. Journalists from various parts of the country also expressed solidarity, underlining the wider significance of the demands raised in Jharkhand

Sagar Suraj 

MOTIHARI: Journalists from across Jharkhand, under the aegis of the Jharkhand Journalist Association, staged a day-long dharna outside the Jharkhand Vidhan Sabha, demanding the implementation of long-pending welfare and security measures for media professionals. The protest witnessed participation from a large number of journalists, reflecting growing discontent within the fraternity over unmet promises.

The sit-in gained national attention as prominent figures, including Shahnawaj Hasan, National General Secretary of the Bharti Shramjivi Patrakar Sangh (BSPS), and Ajay Kumar, Bihar BSPS chief extended their support by joining the demonstration. Journalists from various parts of the country also expressed solidarity, underlining the wider significance of the demands raised in Jharkhand.

Protesters reiterated their key demands, including the immediate implementation of a journalist pension scheme, free health insurance, housing facilities for landless journalists, and the enactment of a comprehensive journalist protection law.

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 They also called for the formation of an elected accreditation committee with authority over advertisement policies, arguing that such reforms are essential to ensure transparency and independence in media operations.

The association highlighted that similar welfare schemes are already operational in states like Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Telangana, and Maharashtra, and urged the Jharkhand government to follow suit.

 It also recalled assurances made by Hemant Soren prior to the Assembly elections regarding the fulfillment of these demands within a stipulated timeframe.
Despite more than a year having passed since the formation of the current government, the journalists alleged that no concrete steps have been taken. 
They warned that if their demands continue to be ignored, they would be compelled to intensify their agitation in the coming days.
The protest concluded peacefully, with a renewed call for dialogue and swift government action to safeguard the rights and welfare of journalists in the state.

By Sagar Suraj
Motihari/Sugauli:
The East Champaran police have ordered a probe after three accused arrested in a case involving the seizure of 80 kg of charas were released, raising questions over the investigation and prosecution in the matter.

The role of the then investigating officer (IO), the station house officer (SHO) of Sugauli police station and the prosecution officer will also be examined as part of the inquiry.

East Champaran superintendent of police Swarn Prabhat has constituted a three-member committee to investigate the case. The panel comprises the DSP (Headquarters), the cyber DSP and the Sadar SDPO.

According to police records, the alleged seizure was made on March 21, 2024, in the Sugauli police station area. An FIR (No. 123/24) was registered under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and three persons were arrested in connection with the case.
Given the large quantity of the contraband, the case was considered a serious instance of organised drug trafficking.

However, the matter came under scrutiny after the three accused were subsequently released by the court. Their release has triggered questions regarding the quality of the investigation and the handling of evidence.
Police sources said the quick release of the accused in a case involving such a large seizure points towards possible lapses in investigation or weak prosecution.
Preliminary inputs suggest that there may have been procedural shortcomings in the preparation of the seizure list, documentation of evidence and the case diary. It is also suspected that the prosecution may not have been able to present a strong case before the court.
The inquiry committee has been tasked with examining whether the seizure of 80 kg charas was properly documented, whether any irregularities occurred during the investigation process and whether negligence or possible collusion played a role in the release of the accused.

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Officials said the panel will scrutinise all relevant documents, including the seizure memo, case diary and other evidence, and may question the officers associated with the investigation.
Based on the findings, departmental action, suspension or even the registration of a fresh case could be recommended against those found responsible.
Drug seizure cases in East Champaran have drawn controversy in the past as well, and the outcome of the latest inquiry is likely to be closely watched.

Sagar Suraj 

MOTIHARI: 
In a story that bridges continents and generations, India-born Scottish politician Prof. Dhruva Kumar is poised to make history in the upcoming Holyrood parliamentary elections.
 Hailing from Chhoudadano village - under East Champaran district in Bihar—the land immortalised by Mahatma Gandhi’s first major satyagraha in India—Kumar’s political rise in Scotland carries deep historical symbolism.

Much like Mahatma Gandhi’s transformative years in South Africa shaped his philosophy of justice and non-violent resistance, Kumar’s journey abroad has forged his political identity. 

Gandhi’s struggle against racial injustice in South Africa laid the moral foundation for his later leadership of the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917, where he stood with oppressed indigo farmers against colonial exploitation. 

Today, more than a century later, a son of Champaran is drawing inspiration from that legacy—this time on Scottish soil.

Prof. Kumar, an academic, economist and geopolitical commentator, has been selected as a regional list candidate for Scotland’s Parliament. A strong advocate of Scottish self-determination, he argues that sovereignty is essential to tackling the cost-of-living crisis, housing pressures and energy inequality. He frequently highlights what he calls the “paradox of Scottish energy”—a resource-rich nation where many households still struggle with heating costs.

His politics emphasise public ownership, fair pricing and a just transition for workers—principles that echo Gandhi’s belief in economic justice and dignity for the marginalised. Kumar has also played a leading role in pushing for the first parliamentary motion in Scotland condemning Hinduphobia, strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora.

Advocating closer India–Scotland cooperation in renewable energy, education and trade, he envisions a modern partnership rooted in shared democratic values.

From Gandhi’s fight for rights in South Africa to Champaran’s assertion of dignity, and now to Holyrood’s democratic stage, Dhruva Kumar’s journey reflects how the spirit of justice born in Champaran continues to resonate far beyond India’s borders.

By Sagar Suraj

MOTIHARI:  In a stark reminder of media accountability, East Champaran District Magistrate Saurabh Jorwal has decisively countered a baseless Zee News digital report accusing him of enabling the sale of land tied to the defunct Chakia Sugar Factory.

 The unverified story, swiftly retracted after administrative pushback, underscores the perils of sensationalism masquerading as journalism.

District officials dismissed the Zee News piece—published on the platform founded by media mogul Subhash Chandra—as "fabricated and malicious.

" It is utter misuse of freedom of speech
as without quoting DM or verifying facts, the story was carried.

 "This was a deliberate attempt to tarnish the DM's reputation and manipulate public perception," an anonymous official told.

DM Jorwal's prompt clarification via the official Information and Public Relations Department (IPRD) whatupp group dismantled the claims.

 "No official can order land sales or purchases. The administration only facilitates regulatory compliance and court directives," he stated.

 Officials confirmed the Chakia factory land registry adhered strictly to judicial orders, with no administrative overreach.

Zee News deleted the report following the rebuttal, but the reporter allegedly peddled similar versions elsewhere. Allegely to declare false narative true to appease his false ego, the official said.

This isn't isolated. The reporter previously targeted a bilingual newspaper journalist based in Motihari.

 The journalists, in his one of the report had questioned Mahatma Gandhi Central University's Vice-Chancellor appointment. 

The same reporter in the zee news digital portal falsely claimed that a defamation notice would be issued against  the said journalists for questioning VC' appointment revealing his illegal proximities with VC.

 University sources however, denied any such action, exposing another unverifiable narrative by the same reporter on the same platform.

The District Public Relations Officer (DPRO) Gyaneshwar Prakash  indicated potential legal steps against the zee news reporter and platform for disseminating "biased, unverified information."

 "We're evaluating action under Press Council of India guidelines," the DPRO said.

 DM Jorwal's firm stance exemplifies administrative transparency amid Bihar's complex land disputes, particularly around shuttered sugar mills like Chakia and Motihari. 

As digital media proliferates, this episode reignites debates on ethical reporting versus clickbait. 

Jorwal's response not only vindicates his office but spotlights the need for fact-checked journalism. 

In an era of yellow journalism, upright officers like him safeguard public trust.

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(Writer is senior correspondent of The Hindustan Times and also general secratary of Bharti Shramjivi patrakar sangh, Bihar)

Sagar Suraj

MOTIHARI: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Smridhi Yatra, envisioned as a recalibration of governance culture, reached Motihari with both promise and scrutiny. Framed by the credo “Sabka Samman–Jeevan Aasan,” the tour seeks to move beyond concrete-and-culvert development toward an administrative ethic anchored in dignity, access and time-bound redressal.

In East Champaran, the Chief Minister reiterated that development must be felt in everyday encounters with the state.

 The seventh resolve of Sapt Nishchay-3—mandating Mondays and Fridays for public grievance hearings across offices—signals an attempt to unclog a bureaucracy long criticised for procedural labyrinths.

 The emphasis on basic amenities in offices, from drinking water to seating, underscores a shift from file-centric routines to citizen-first service.

Progress reviews, however, have drawn mixed reactions. Official briefings point to faster execution under Sapt Nishchay-2 and the roll-out of Sapt Nishchay-3 targets, with Kumar issuing a clear warning against delays in approved projects. 

In Motihari, he reviewed training at the women’s ITI under a Tata Technologies programme, inaugurated projects worth ₹138 crore, and laid foundations for works valued at ₹34 crore—an unmistakable signal of priority for East Champaran.

The visit also blended enterprise and identity. Stalls run by Jeevika didis and micro-entrepreneurs reflected the state’s push for livelihoods, complemented by bank-linked assistance of ₹370 crore for self-employment.

 Infrastructure updates—from the Dhnauti river RCC bridge to works around the Virat Ramayan Mandir—wove development with cultural affirmation.
Behind the scenes, security and coordination were decisive to the yatra’s smooth conduct. 

The meticulous arrangements by Swarn Prabhat, Superintendent of Police, Motihari, and Harikishor Ray, DIG, ensured crowd management, traffic regulation and inter-agency synchrony—quietly enabling the political theatre to proceed without disruption.

By Sagar Suraj

MOTIHARI: At a time when public confidence in policing is often shaken by recurring scandals, the decisive action taken in the Sugauli bribery case has offered a rare and reassuring counter-narrative.

In Bihar’s East Champaran district, where a Circle Inspector was caught accepting ₹60,000 to derail a criminal investigation, the response from the top brass has stood out as an example of leadership rooted in integrity and resolve.

Under the clear directions of DIG Harikishore Ray and SP Swarn Prabhat, the department demonstrated that corruption, regardless of rank or connection, will not be tolerated. 

Their prompt action sent a powerful message down the chain of command: the uniform is a symbol of service, not a shield for wrongdoing.

The Sugauli episode exposed uncomfortable truths about how influence and internal networks can be misused to manipulate investigations. 

Yet, it also highlighted how strong leadership can interrupt that cycle. By acting without delay, DIG Ray and SP Prabhat reinforced the principle that accountability is not optional but foundational to policing. 

In doing so, they restored a measure of faith among citizens who often feel helpless in the face of institutional apathy.
What sets this response apart is not just the punishment of the guilty, but the intent behind it.

 Both officers have consistently emphasized discipline, transparency, and ethical conduct as non-negotiable values. Their approach reflects an understanding that public trust is earned through actions, not slogans. 

In a system frequently accused of protecting its own, their decision showed the courage to put institutional credibility above individual convenience.

However, this moment should also serve as a starting point, not a conclusion. 

While suspensions are necessary, long-term reform will require systemic changes—robust internal vigilance, regular audits, and protection for whistleblowers.

 Leadership at the top, as demonstrated in East Champaran, is crucial to driving these reforms forward.

In a district headquartered at Motihari, this case has become more than a scandal; it has become a benchmark. 

It proves that when senior officers choose principle over pressure, the badge regains its honor. 

DIG Harikishore Ray and SP Swarn Prabhat have drawn a clear line—one that separates authority from abuse, and power from responsibility. In doing so, they have shown that meaningful change in the Bihar Police is not just possible, but already underway.

Speaking to Border News Mirror, Proctor of MGCU Prof. (Dr.) Prashun Datt stated that eligibility calculations in Bihar consider experience from the due date of promotion, not merely the date of formal approval, and confirmed that a formal reply is being prepared.

Sagar Suraj

MOTIHARI : A legal storm has engulfed Mahatma Gandhi Central University (MGCU), Motihari, following a notice challenging the appointment of its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sanjay Shrivastva.

A serious legal challenge has emerged, bringing questions of eligibility, statutory compliance, and transparency to the forefront.

 The appointment of Prof. Sanjay Srivastava is under scrutiny following a formal legal notice alleging violation of mandatory norms prescribed under the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations, 2018.

The challenge has been initiated by academician Dr. Sandeep Pahal of Meerut through Advocate Alok Anand and has been served upon the UGC and the Ministry of Education. 

At the center of the dispute is Regulation 7.3.0(i) of the UGC Regulations, 2018, which requires a Vice-Chancellor to possess a minimum of ten years’ experience as a Professor in a university, or equivalent experience in a reputed research or academic administrative organization. 

These regulations, framed under Section 26 of the UGC Act, 1956, have statutory force and are binding on all universities across India.

According to the notice, the Ministry’s advertisement dated 21 May 2022 for the MGCU Vice-Chancellor post explicitly adopted these UGC norms. 

However, information obtained under the Right to Information Act from Banaras Hindu University (BHU) indicates that Prof. Srivastava was promoted to the rank of Professor (Stage-5) only on 4 October 2012 after approval by BHU’s Executive Council. 

Based on this date, the petitioner argues that by the June 2022 cut-off, Prof. Srivastava had completed only nine years and eight months of service as a Professor, falling short of the mandatory ten-year requirement.
The notice draws strength from judicial precedents as well .

 In a 2022 ruling, the Supreme Court of India clarified that experience in non-teaching bodies cannot be equated with experience “as Professor” under UGC Regulation 7.3.0.

 Similarly, the Himachal Pradesh High Court in Dr. Dharam Pal Singh v. State of H.P. (2021), relying on Union of India v. M. Bhaskar (1996), held that notional or retrospective promotions cannot be counted for eligibility; only actual service from the date of promotion is valid.

The notice, issued under Section 80 of the Civil Procedure Code, 1908, alleges procedural arbitrariness in the selection process and seeks an immediate review of the appointment.

 It also flags alleged inconsistencies in Prof. Srivastava’s curriculum vitae regarding his Fulbright association with American University, Washington D.C., suggesting possible misrepresentation. He was there as visiting scholar instead of visiting professor, Pahal claimed.

Responding to the allegations, MGCU officials defended the appointment. Speaking to Border News Mirror, Prof. (Dr.) Prashun Datt stated that eligibility calculations in Bihar consider experience from the due date of promotion, not merely the date of formal approval, and confirmed that a formal reply is being prepared.

Meanwhile, sources indicate that no Bihar-specific regulation overrides UGC norms, reinforcing their statutory supremacy. 

If no action is taken within 60 days, the petitioner plans to approach the courts, potentially triggering a precedent-setting ruling on how “experience” under UGC Regulation 7.3.0(i) must be legally computed, notice reads

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In a move seen as both disciplinary and strategic, MGCU suspended several students for 14 days following a campus altercation. However, they have still been permitted to take upcoming examinations.

By Sagar Suraj/ BNM

MOTIHARI: Mahatma Gandhi Central University (MGCU) has taken stern disciplinary action against five students from the Departments of English and Management Sciences following a violent altercation that broke out recently on campus.

 The incident has sparked discussions among students about campus safety and inter-departmental rivalry.

University’s Firm Action

According to an official communiqué released by the university on Friday, the disciplinary decision followed a detailed report submitted by the Proctorial Board. The report found the students guilty of serious misconduct, including assault and use of abusive language during the confrontation.

The university, acting under Clause 8 of Ordinance No. 17—which governs student discipline and outlines the duties of the Proctor—finalized the suspension in a meeting held on November 21, 2025.

 Students Suspended for 14 Days

The Chief Proctor’s Office confirmed that the suspension is effective from November 22 to December 4, 2025. During this period, the five suspended students will be barred from entering all university campuses, academic blocks, and administrative buildings.

Those suspended have been identified as Kartik Kumar Mishra, Keshav Kumar Singh, and Pranav Kumar from the Department of English; Kanu Vaibhav, also from the English Department; and Ankit Kumar Mishra from the Department of Management Sciences.

Disruption of Campus Harmony

The Proctorial Board described the incident as a severe breach of university discipline. It stated that such behavior disrupts the academic environment and tarnishes the image of the institution. The Board further noted that the clash reflected “unbecoming conduct” inconsistent with the expectations of MGCU students.

To reinforce accountability, each of the five students has been directed to deposit a fine of Rs. 1,500 at the Office of the Chief Proctor by December 5, 2025. Proof of payment must be submitted immediately after the deposit, failing which the concerned students will not be allowed to appear for upcoming university examinations.

Ban on English Department Events

In an additional measure, the Office of the Chief Proctor has suspended all cultural activities and events organized by the Department of English until further notice. The directive underscores the institution’s zero-tolerance policy towards acts of indiscipline and its intention to preserve a peaceful academic environment.

Administration Reiterates Its Commitment

University authorities reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring a secure and respectful learning environment. A senior administrator stated that MGCU “will continue to take decisive action to maintain campus order and uphold institutional values.

Allegations of Harassment Spark Debate

Meanwhile, some students from the Department of Management Sciences have alleged that the incident stemmed from repeated cases of harassment during visits to the Bankat campus from their current facility at Balua Taal. They claim that female students of the department were teased, triggering tension between student groups. These claims, however, remain unverified by university officials. The university community now awaits further clarification from the administration as inquiries continue into the circumstances leading to the clash.

In a move seen as both disciplinary and strategic, MGCU suspended several students for 14 days following a campus altercation. However, they have still been permitted to take upcoming examinations. Beginning Saturday, students whose syllabi have already been completed were unofficially granted leave to focus on exam preparations, leading to the suspension of regular classes.

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Many observers view this measure as the administration’s attempt to restore order and prevent further unrest on campus, balancing the need for discipline with the academic priorities of students in the lead-up to examinations.

Sagar Suraj

MOTIHARI : Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) guarding the Indo-Nepal border have set up a check post on the ‘friendship bridge’ at Bihar’s Raxaul causing concern to the visitors of both the nations.

The bridge located on ‘Sariswa River’- delineating ‘no-men’s land’ between both countries is straining the historic ties of roti-beti, religious spiritual faith and cross-border trade between India and Nepal.

Various bodies formed in and across the border to keep intact the age-old mutual friendship between two nations, have registered their anger over alleged ‘high handedness’ of SSB personnel during the checking and frisking process on the check post.

 Senior Vice President of Nepal- India Vishwa Maitri Sangha Praveen Mainali, Nepal, visited Raxaul, and expressed deep concern over the checking system implemented on the ‘Friendship Bridge (Maitri pool).

“The bridge, which was once considered a symbol of friendship between India and Nepal, has become a reason for ‘uncomfortable experience’ for traders, travelers, pilgrims and border citizens”, he said.

Mr Mainali says that due to the strict checking system on the bridge, people are getting stuck in traffic jams for hours, and a feeling of fear and discomfort has taken root in the minds of everyone. who crosses the border.

 

All pictures caughts By Jay Prakash

Mainali said that verification and checking is necessary, but its method should not become a blow to friendship. This bridge is not a border but a shared path of centuries old relations, he said.

The relationship between India and Nepal is not limited to the diplomatic border between the two countries. This relationship has been cultural, familial and intimate.

 Marriages take place in thousands of families in both the countries, many Nepali citizens get employment in India and the movement of Nepali citizens to the border villages of India has been going on for generations. The sudden imposition of strict monitoring and paperwork on this is affecting the lifestyle and family structure of the people, he said.

 A large population of Nepal, especially people from the border areas, buys daily necessities from the border markets of India and takes them to their country. This is not just shopping, but is also a part of cross-border socio-cultural unity. But now the search of every bag, every packet, and long inspection processes are hampering trade movement, which is also creating economic imbalance.

 Mr Mainali expressed special concern about the upcoming Shravan month. Every year lakhs of devotees from Nepal travel to various Shiva temples in India for the Bolbam Yatra. Pilgrimage sites like Deoghar, Baijnath Dham, Banaras, Kashi Vishwanath and Areraj are the centers of faith for these pilgrims. In such a situation, the intensive checking being done on the Maitri Bridge can disrupt these religious pilgrimages and there is a possibility of hurting religious sentiments as well, he said.

 Mainali made it clear that he would take up this issue seriously with the Indian Embassy in Nepal, the Nepal government and the Indian government. He suggested that the check post be shifted some distance away from the Maitri Bridge so that neither security is compromised nor ease of public relations is affected.

Arun Kumar Gupta, President of Raxaul Textile Chamber of Commerce, said that there can be a place for investigation, but there should not be a wall between relationships. This bridge connects hearts; it should not be turned into a wall of documents.

Traders, transporters, social workers and local citizens of Raxaul and Birgunj (Nepal) are also dissatisfied with this arrangement. People say that this bridge of India-Nepal is not just a geographical structure but a medium of intimate communication between the two countries. If there is no ease in this today, then a line of distrust can be drawn between the people.

 The relations between India and Nepal have never been bound by visas and passports. These relations have been going on through the hearts – they are not made by blood, but by emotions. The need for a verification system cannot be denied, but if the way of implementing it ignores public sentiments and social structure, then the Maitri Bridge will no longer be a symbol of friendship but will become an administrative wall.

BNM tried to take versions of SSB officials on the allegations, but no one appeared to comment on “Are there any necessities to streamline the verification system on this “questioned check post’.