Tura, April 21, 2025: The A’chik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) expressed its firm objection and deep dismay over the decision of the Government once again appointed, Non-Garo Chairperson of the Meghalaya Public Service Commission (MPSC). This move raises serious questions about the State’s commitment to equitable representation and the spirit of the Reservation Policy of 1972.
This policy, which forms the bedrock of inclusivity in Meghalaya, categorizes the indigenous population into two primary groups Khasi-Jaintia and Garo each allocated 40% representation in public services and appointments. The principle of fair rotation, though not codified, has been widely recognized and informally upheld in the appointment of the MPSC Chairperson, means to reflect the demographic diversity of our State in high offices.
It is important to note that even for the appointment of MPSC Members, this principle is already in place, where two members are typically drawn from the Khasi-Jaintia community and two from the Garo community, in the Reservation Policy. It is logical and the same principle should govern the selection of the Chairperson, ensuring balanced representation at the highest level of this constitutional body, said Adv. Bernita R.Marak General Secretary of ASPF, HQ Tura.
However, is the growing tendency to blur the established binary of Khasi-Jaintia and Garo by introducing an artificial three way classification. Such revisionism not only contradicts the clear framework of the 1972 policy, but also appears to be deliberate strategy to rationalize disproportionate appointments. It is imperative to resist such manipulations which could erode trust and deepen divisions, she added.
In reviewed of the past appointments clearly indicates that the Khasi-Jaintia community was held Chairmanship for 9 times, whereas Garo community was held the position only 7 times. This pattern shows an emerging imbalance that must not be allowed to widen.
Fresh appointment from the same community as the outgoing Chairperson, will further skew this ratio and send a demoralizing signal to the Garo people, that their rightful claim to constitutional representation can be disregarded, asserted ASPF.
The High Court of Meghalaya, through its pivotal judgment, on 5th April 2022, stressed the urgent need for transparency and accountability in State recruitment, highlighting that deviation from roster based, appointments could lead to “Nepotism, arbitrariness and subversions”. The Court’s stern warning should guide all such decisions, including constitutional appointments of MPSC Chairperson.
The ASPF strongly maintains that the Chairmanship of the MPSC, must now rightfully go to a member of the Garo community. Otherwise would be a direct affront to the ideals of equity and justice that underpin Meghalaya’s formation and governance. “We are confident that your leadership will uphold the integrity of this principle” said ASPF General Secretary.
Further, this concern be overlooked, the ASPF will be left with no choice but to pursue lawful and democratic recourse, including peaceful mobilization and legal action, to protect the representation and rights of the Garo people, said Marak.
“We urge Chief Minister Conrad K.Sangma to act in the interest of justice, mutual respect and balanced governance that honors the diversity of our indigenous communities” added Marak.
