SHILLONG, Oct 23: The KSU Employment Monitoring Cell (EMC) on Wednesday proposed a ‘Fifteen-Point Charter for District Selection Committees’ aimed at ensuring transparency and efficiency in the recruitment process.
In a representation submitted to East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner RM Kurbah, who is also the Chairman of the District Selection Committee (DSC), KSU EMC chairman Reuben Najiar expressed concerns about the alleged improper functioning of the DSC, which, he said, has led to inappropriate appointments. He noted that this has been unfair to genuine and capable job seekers who aspire to serve in the government sector.
Najiar pointed out that despite a lack of advertisements from the DSC over an extended period, appointments have been made in various departments every year, raising ethical concerns. “The absence of proper recruitment advertisements while continuing with the appointment process is highly questionable and unethical,” he said.
Among the Union’s demands is the completion of the recruitment process within a six-month period. The KSU also raised concerns about the personal interviews conducted by the DSC, which have been a subject of debate. Najiar referenced a decision by the Department of Personnel and Training, based on recommendations by the Committee of Secretaries, to discontinue interviews for junior-level posts in Group ‘B’ (Non-Gazetted), Group ‘C’, and Group ‘D’ positions, which are now reclassified as Group ‘C’.
“We strongly demand that personal interviews for positions in Grade B and below be abolished to curb corruption and promote fair and transparent recruitment,” Najiar said.
The Union also called for the establishment of a Grievance Cell, where aggrieved candidates could raise concerns related to the DSC. They suggested that complaints should be resolved within 72 hours of filing.
Additionally, the KSU proposed the implementation of computer-based exams, citing their efficiency and security. The Union also recommended the installation of CCTV cameras in examination rooms to prevent unfair practices.
The Union further urged the appointment of sufficiently qualified non-official vice-chairpersons and members to the DSC, with no political affiliations. Najiar stressed that the selection of non-official members should be guided by ethical principles, suggesting a thorough vetting process involving an independent panel to avoid undue influence.
Najiar also advocated for the annual declaration of assets and liabilities by public servants. He stressed that applicants for DSC posts in Khasi and Jaintia Hills must be domiciles of Meghalaya and proficient in the Khasi language.
He also urged the government to prioritize Meghalaya residents over candidates from other states.
Furthermore, Najiar called for the abolition of ad-hoc, contractual, and casual appointments, stating that such appointments should only be made in emergencies and for a term not exceeding two months, in line with established guidelines.
“Most individuals appointed through these methods are backed by politicians or high-ranking officials, which is highly condemnable,” he said.
Other KSU recommendations include the publication of an annual calendar with key exam dates, public disclosure of marks secured by candidates, ensuring no changes to candidate roll numbers during the recruitment process, and providing carbon copies of OMR sheets to candidates.
