SHILLONG, Sep 29: State BJP vice president and Tura MDC Bernard N Marak on Sunday told the state government that it has done enough talking and now it is time to act on its promises.
Questioning the government on the steps taken to fulfill the promises made during the election, including the assurance of 5 lakh jobs for the youth, he asked Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma: “Your promise to the youth, that if re-elected as Chief Minister, you would provide 5 lakh jobs, remains their only hope.”
“We all believe that as Chief Minister, it is possible to provide 5,00,000 permanent jobs, especially now that you have an absolute majority,” he added.
Marak said, “The youth voted for your party with high hopes and expectations, but there seems to be disappointment among them, especially the educated ones. After pursuing higher studies, they are left without jobs, and their struggle for a better life appears to be never-ending, especially against those who are rich and in power.”
He noted that there was a recent selection process for nurses, home guards, and other positions, but concerns over a lack of transparency have been raised by some youths. “I pray that such things do not happen in our state, as we are a Christian state. I suggest that a fair selection process should be carried out so that no deserving candidate is deprived, and there is no injustice to eligible applicants. I have received complaints and grievances from applicants who fear foul play,” Marak said.
He added, “It is not just those who are applying now who have raised concerns. Even those already employed have expressed grievances. ASHA workers, Aganwadi workers, MSSAT village representatives, Ad-hoc and government teachers, health workers in civil hospitals, CHCs, PHCs, HCs, muster roll workers in many departments, home guards, mid-day meal cooks — the list goes on — feel that their dues are not being addressed by your government.” Marak continued, “The ASHAs, who were promised a payment of Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 during your political campaign, have yet to receive it. The AGANWADI workers are still waiting for their dues, as officially promised. Many trained under MSSAT have been removed from their jobs, and the anticipation of getting their dues remains a distant dream for many employees.”
He urged the Chief Minister to address their grievances so that the weaker and poorer sections of society are satisfied. “Failing to do so will set a very bad precedent,” he warned.
