By Aristotle Lyngdoh
Most of the time we blame the politicians for all the mess that happens in the state and society and this is correct because they are the ones who should monitor and oversee that there is no misconduct and faulty practice in the government. But in contrast, they are not doing what should be done as patrons of the society and democracy. They fail because they do not have the guts and capacity to confront and address the problems that cripple other functions and functionaries. Most politicians are concerned about their own local issues, which in other words are individualistic in nature. But those in power have to bend to the whimsical advice and suggestion of their bureaucratic masters to create projects and missions that do not have physical substance but are just an alternative for easy transaction of by-passing the due financial processes. One such project is the umbrella project by the name Meghalaya Basin Development Authority where nothing concrete and meaningful is being done except primary works and activities of various other departments.
Coming back to the purpose of this writing, it is not meant to criticize but to ascertain if there is a shadow business behind the scenes. I wonder why most of these non-native retired IAS or IPS officers, whatever the case may be are still lingering around even when they have completed their tenure in the state. Some of them are even staying in government quarters free of cost with all facilities which I believe the rule book does not allow and is probably illegal. What business and relationship do they have with the state government? Even if this government has reappointed them, on what basis were they considered indispensable? What is their significant contribution to the state during their years of service? How long can our poor state government feed them? On the other hand, I salute those retired local bureaucrats and technocrats who immediately gave up the facilities provided by the government which includes vehicles, residences, etc. upon retirement. Some of them even refused to accept second appointment in order to pave the way for the next generation. They have set a good example and others should learn a great lesson from these local gentlemen. And those who try to manipulate the government and the system to achieve their personal goals should be ashamed of themselves because they are attempting to snatch away the rights of the new generation professionals.
Apart from the pension that they are getting, these people are enjoying free quarters, vehicles and are paid extra income for their advisory or chairmanship role, which according to my understanding is unproductive and meaningless. One can imagine how much our government is spending monthly on these people. There are many local, retired bureaucrats who can be substituted and that too with a minimum expenditure. Why is this idea not considered by the government? Is it not that something fishy is going on somewhere? How these people are able to persuade the Chief Minister is something that people should know or is it that the Chief Minister himself is scared of getting rid of them? Some may argue that being non-local officers from mainland India they may have a better chance to liaise with various ministries in the national capital but this is just a lame excuse and a cover up. Another sad thing that these ex-bureaucrats are doing is their constant interference with the affairs of the department as if they are the owners of that department and founders of the state. Further, they have wittingly put some other retired pet officers (preferably local MCS) who are close to them in some important positions in order to protect themselves from any external query. In other words these pet officers are nothing but sentries to guard the hidden intentions of these senior ex-bureaucrats. If I am not wrong, the idea to extend and expand urban administration in to the Autonomous District Councils areas is perhaps their brainchild for the purpose of getting involved in various projects and transactions. In this way they have exposed their greed which is the root of all evil.
While the state is reeling under severe financial crunch, these payments for superfluous posts seem to be legitimate expenditure but in fact are the hidden costs and burden to the state exchequer which in turn has a cascading effect and impacts on the common citizens of the state. If the founders of our state are still alive today, they will be greatly disappointed and sad to see the condition of Meghalaya as it is today where opportunists are taking advantage of this poor state in every aspect. In the past most of the non-native officers who have served in the state for many years in various capacities have happily relinquished their posts on superannuation without seeking any post retirement appointment because they understand where they belong. If retired people are still involved and interfere in every affair of the department, then transparency is under threat and misdeeds will not be unearthed. Their undue interference will hinder the smooth progress of a department and will deprive the rights of the new functionaries therein to discharge their duty responsibly.
These are few of the issues that the new government or for that matter political parties should address and deal with firm determination if they are serious about the well being of the state and its citizens. One may say that I am a bit communal but that is not a fact. The reason is purely because a small and poor state like Meghalaya cannot afford any wasteful expenditure. Therefore, my sincere appeal to the leadership of the state is to see that these types of injustices by undeserving persons should not be perpetrated again and again, thereby robbing the poor people of the state. As citizens of the state we have the right to express and interfere because this government belongs to the people and people have the right to know everything that is going on within the government and its of functioning.