SHILLONG, Jan 14: The United Democratic Party (UDP) on Friday reiterated its demand for the relaxation of the upper age limit for recruitment to government posts in the state.
UDP general secretary Jemino Mawthoh said his party had on September 6, 2020, submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on the issue, which was subsequently raised in the Assembly.
“The CM had said it was being actively considered. But there has been no response from the government. It should take up this matter seriously,” he said.
“We would like to address the issue of unemployment and problems of those
who are going through agony and frustration of becoming overaged. They should be given a chance,” he added.
Stating that the party is concerned about unemployment, Mawthoh said: “Lack of opportunities has affected the mindset and demoralised many of our talented and skilled youths.”
Although unemployment is a global phenomenon, it has become a serious problem in Meghalaya, he said.
The UDP general secretary also felt relaxing the upper age limit for jobs should be in consonance with decisions taken by other states of India for the general or reserved category.
Pointing out that there is a huge disparity in the number of applicants and vacancies, he said the age relaxation could help in bridging the gap.
“Even the UPSC has relaxed the upper age limit of general category candidates from 27 to 32 years and for SCs/STs to 35 years. Why can we not do this in Meghalaya?” Mawthoh asked.
