Saleng gets co-chairman post under category A+

SHILLONG: Independent legislator Saleng Sangma was appointed Co-Chairman of the Meghalaya State Development Reforms Commission (SDRC) under category A+ soon after he joined NCP as its associate member.
NCP is supporting the Congress-led government and hence the political appointment.
Ironically, Saleng, who was the Community and Rural Development Minister, was denied party ticket by the Congress in 2013 polls, which prompted him to contest and win his Gambegre seat as an Independent candidate.
Under category A+, the MLA will avail himself of Rs 20,000 honorarium per month, hospitality (Rs 8,500), house rent (Rs 20,000 per month), free medical benefit, requisition of vehicle (Rs 600 per day), electricity charges (Rs 5,000 per month) and conveyance allowance against allotted car (250 litres petrol per month and 4 litres mobil).
Besides, for furnishing house, Rs 2 lakh as one-time assistance is given and for maintenance of furniture Rs 40,000 per annum is allotted.
Other facilities for the political appointee include one telephone in office and another at residence.
Besides, TA/DA is as per the facility allotted to Grade 1 officer.
The office staff include a steno (grade 1 or 2), SA, PA, a typist, a driver, and additional driver and grade 4 staff in office as admissible. Moreover, at the residence, five grade 4 employees can be allotted.