Editor
SHILLONG: The Meghalaya Indigenous Minority Tribes' Forum (MIMTF) has put forth a request for a 15 percent job reservation for the Rabha, Boro, Hajong, Koch, and Mann tribes in the state. In a memorandum addressed to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, the forum emphasized the need to review the existing Reservation Policy and allocate a suitable quota to these indigenous tribes.
The MIMTF stated, "We earnestly request you to kindly consider granting a 15% quota, specifically for the Indigenous Minority Tribes of Meghalaya, including the Hajongs, Koches, Rabhas, Boro-Kacharies, and Manns. This reservation will provide them with an opportunity to grow and attain parity with the Khasis, Garos, and Jaintias."
The forum highlighted that this reservation would serve as compensation for the losses endured by these tribes over the past 51 years, particularly in terms of government job opportunities, education, and the economy. They asserted their status as bona fide citizens of Meghalaya, highlighting their indigenous heritage alongside the Khasis, Garos, and Jaintias. Additionally, the forum acknowledged the Karbis/Marngars (Dimasa) residing in the Ri-Bhoi district as another indigenous tribe within the state.
Currently, the Government Job Reservation Policy designates 40% for Khasis and Jaintias, 40% for Garos, 15% for the general category, 5% for O.T. (Minority Tribe) and Scheduled Castes. However, the forum noted that while their allotted quota is technically 5%, it practically amounts to a mere 2% or even less, as they must share it with Scheduled Castes and other tribes from outside the state, such as the Nagas and Mizos.
Representatives from various associations joined forces to sign the memorandum, including the Meghalaya Hajong Welfare Association, Meghalaya Rabha Jatio Sewa Sangha (MRJSS), Meghalaya Koch Association, Meghalaya Boro Sahitya Sabha, and All Mann Tai Speaking Welfare Association.
The MIMTF's plea for increased job reservation reflects their commitment to rectifying historical imbalances and providing equal opportunities for the marginalized indigenous tribes of Meghalaya. It remains to be seen how the state government will respond to this demand and address the concerns raised by the forum.