The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), through its Employment Monitoring Cell, has submitted a letter to Sampath Kumar, IAS, Development Commissioner of the Planning Department, expressing concern over the lack of transparency in the recruitment of 28 consultant positions intended to assist District Magistrates and Deputy Commissioners in Meghalaya.
The government had entrusted the Bharti Institute of Public Policy (ISB) to handle these appointments. However, KSU pointed out that the job openings were only advertised on LinkedIn, excluding official government platforms and local newspapers, which limits opportunities for local job seekers.
Additionally, the KSU noted that 50% of the positions are reserved for non-residents, which they find unacceptable. They questioned why these roles are necessary when District Magistrates and Deputy Commissioners, already qualified through MCS/IAS exams, should be capable of handling the responsibilities.
The KSU suggested that any research or data collection work should be assigned to local institutions like NEHU, providing employment opportunities for local youth. The union demanded that the government reserve all 28 positions for indigenous candidates and warned that they will oppose any further steps taken without proper local representation.
Sampath Kumar assured the KSU that their concerns will be taken seriously.
