The Garo Students Union’s Central Executive Committee (GSU CEC) has issued a strong appeal to Meghalaya’s Expert Committee reviewing the State Reservation Policy, advocating for the retention of the existing system. This call comes amidst concerns over the continued marginalization of the Garo community, heightened by recent judicial directives to reinstate the roster system in job employment after over five decades.
In a letter addressed to L K Diengdoh, Secretary of the Expert Committee on the State Reservation Policy, GSU CEC President Tengsak G Momin underscored the persistent challenges faced by the Garo community. Momin emphasized disparities in educational and economic opportunities, coupled with inadequate representation in government services, as pressing issues that necessitate the preservation of current reservation norms.
Pointing to a recent census report revealing a backlog of 15,157 jobs meant for Garos in the state government sector, Momin criticized efforts to revise the reservation policy. He argued against what he perceives as attempts by the united Khasi-Jaintia tribe to secure a larger share of opportunities, citing their relatively better access to education and economic resources.
The GSU highlighted the urgency of addressing the job backlog for Garos, which it claims has been overlooked amid political maneuvering and assurances from the government. The union contends that any move to amend the 1972 Job Reservation Policy risks exacerbating ethnic tensions and undermining equitable allocation among scheduled tribes and other communities.
In conclusion, the Garo Students Union urged a balanced and fair approach to job reservations in Meghalaya, stressing that maintaining the status quo is crucial to safeguarding the rights and opportunities of the Garo community in the state.