SCPCR chief to be finalised within 10 days

SHILLONG, Aug 13: After the initial candidate declined the position, the state government has shortlisted five new candidates for the position of the Chairman of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) with a final decision expected within ten days, Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh announced on Tuesday.
“We had recommended a candidate, but they declined the offer at the last minute. Now, the cabinet will make the final decision from the shortlisted names,” Lyngdoh stated, while confirming that the individual who declined the role is from Garo Hills and had expressed disinterest in holding any office.
The State Cabinet had, in June, approved the appointment of former SCPCR chairperson, Iamonlang M. Syiem, as the new chairperson of the Meghalaya State Commission for Women (MSCW). To accommodate this, the government had increased the age limit for the position from 65 to 70 years, as Syiem is currently 65 years old. The decision was made following consultation with Law department and the Advocate General’s approval.