Northeast Desk, 6th May: Marcuise N Marak, the State working president of the NPP and a senior minister overseeing PHE, has responded to concerns surrounding the state job reservation policy, particularly in light of criticism from former chief minister and Trinamool leader Mukul Sangma. Sangma had raised objections to the establishment of an Experts Committee tasked with examining the policy.
Marak clarified that the committee’s primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the state’s job reservation policy and present its findings to the government. He emphasized the neutrality of the committee by appointing experts from outside the state to ensure an impartial assessment free from regional biases.
The five-member committee, chaired by retired judge Justice M C Garg, comprises experts such as Dr. Satish Chandra, Prof. D V Kumar, Prof. Chandrashekar, and Prof. Subhodeep Mukherjee.
Marak explained that involving members from local communities might introduce emotional biases, leading to the decision to appoint neutral experts. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma ensured that individual, group, or community sentiments would be duly considered in the process.
The Experts Committee is mandated to tour various regions of the state, engage with the public and stakeholders, collect grievances and suggestions, conduct public hearings, and finally present their report to the government for consideration.
Marak cited the precedent of reviewing the job reservation policy in 1987 during Captain Williamson A Sangma’s tenure, where, after thorough deliberation, the policy remained unchanged.
Pending the committee’s report, the state cabinet will decide whether to revise the policy or maintain the status quo. Marak assured residents of Garo Hills that ample opportunity would be provided for expressing opinions and suggestions during the committee’s visit.
He cautioned against being influenced by unfounded claims and allegations on social media, urging the public to rely on verified facts regarding the issue.