‘Agatha qualified, experienced’: Paul defends her appointment

SHILLONG, Sep 9: Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh has stoutly defended Agatha Sangma’s appointment as Chairperson of Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights and dismissed allegations of favouritism and nepotism, while assuring that due process was followed for her appointment.
Lyngdoh highlighted Agatha’s extensive experience and qualifications as the primary factors behind her appointment.
“These allegations will always come whether we appoint A, B, or C, but the important matter, which I have also shared with you in the past, was that we had already approached and identified an individual whom we recommended as chairperson of the MSCPCR,” he said.
The minister revealed that the individual declined the offer, which extended the process of finding a suitable candidate.
Lyngdoh stated that the appointment underwent “due diligence” to ensure the right choice was made. “We considered her experience in the Parliament, her educational qualification, and also the fact that she has had a long innings in public service. Those were major points that validated her appointment as the chairperson.”
The cabinet meeting to finalise her appointment was held at the Chief Minister’s residence, and on being asked about why the media was not informed about it, he said, “It was an urgent cabinet meeting held at 10 am on Friday. Even if we had informed you, most of you would not have been around.”