By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: As the indefinite hunger strike staged by qualified but unemployed Grade-IV candidates under the banner of the Association of Qualified Grade-IV-2011 entered the third day on Thursday, Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma on Thursday informed that he had spoken to the Chief Secretary and asked him to direct the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner to resolve the matter at the earliest.
During the question hour, Ardent Basaiawmoit (HSPDP) wanted to know the steps taken by the government so that the grade IV candidates can withdraw their hunger strike.
In response, Dr Sangma said “My reply given yesterday (Wednesday) was categorical and it reflects the stand of the government.”
Chief Minister on Wednesday in a reply to a question raised by Paul Lyngdoh (UDP) had assured the House that the Government would examine the legalities concerning the appointment of the remaining qualified candidates of the East Khasi Hills Grade-IV merit list.
Meanwhile, the unemployed Grade-IV candidates on Thursday noon shifted the venue to stage the indefinite hunger strike from Polo to State Central Library without obtaining prior permission from the district administration.
Expressing firmness to continue with the strike, the agitators said they will not call off the strike until and unless a formal letter is received from the government on its initiative to resolve their problems.
The unemployed Grade-IV candidates had on Tuesday staged their hunger strike at Student’s Field in Jaiaw but shifted the venue to Polo parking lot on Wednesday as the venue had already been booked by the Fellowship Church.
The Association has so far sent five representations to the government without any result.