SHILLONG: With controversy surrounding the transfer of West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Arun Kumar Kembhavi, Nongstoin MLA Macmillan Byrsat on Tuesday washed his hands off the matter, saying that he only endorsed the decision of the state government.
“It is not political interference. The government has based it on merit and it is the prerogative of the state government,” he told reporters on Tuesday.
Byrsat further added that the decision made is a correct one.
Arguing that 80 per cent of Nongstoin’s inhabitants are from rural areas, the legislator said it is favourable to have a bureaucrat who could communicate with the people easily.
Byrsat was critical of the style of functioning of Kembhavi and said it was not up to the mark. “His predecessors were better. He uploads most information on social media but 90 per cent of the people are unaware of social media,” Byrsat said.
He went on to add that most of the job applications were invited online which is not suitable for the people of the District and recalled that on one occasion, he had requested Kembhavi to go for offline applications as well. To a question, Byrsat said only a selected few wanted Kembhavi to continue as DC of West Khasi Hills.
Meanwhile, The West Khasi Students’ Union (WKSU) and Western Youth Federation (WYF) have urged Chief Minister Conrad Sangma to retain the Deputy Commissioner, Arun Kumar Kembhavi in the district.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the youth organisations said that they are disappointed to learn about the emergency transfer of the DC without any reason.
“We have found sincerity in his service to the people of West Khasi Hills during these past 14 months,” the statement said.
Referring to Kembhavi as the backbone of the district to develop and bring changes in the district, the pressure groups said his ability to ensure transparency in the District Selection Committee (DSC) gives a fair chance and hope to unemployed youths who seek government jobs.
During the 14 months of his service, all government departments in the district functioned well focusing on various developmental works and ensuring work culture,” the statement added.
The youths have urged the chief minister to intervene into the matter for the betterment of the people of the district and put a stay on the DC’s transfer.
