TURA:
The demand by some sections within the Khasi Hills calling for a review of the state job reservation policy in favour of more reservations for the tribe has hit a nerve across the state with others now jumping into the fray demanding their dues as well.
On Monday, All India Trinamool Congress legislator from Rajabala and minority leader Dr. Mizanur Rahman Kazi issued a statement calling for slashing the 85 per cent job reservation in the state to 50 per cent so that the remaining can go to the unreserved category as per the verdict of the Supreme Court of India.
The demand for a review of the reservation policy calling for more quota for the Khasi community is being spearheaded by new VPP MLA and former FKJGP leader Ardent Basaiawmoit who is undertaking a fast seeking change to the state policy.
“In view of the demands made by several organisations on the reservation policy, I would like to draw the attention of the chief minister to review the prevailing reservation policy in Meghalaya wherein 85 per cent is being reserved for Scheduled Tribe, Scheduled Caste and other tribes which is against the reservation policy set up by the honorable Supreme Court of India,” pointed out Kazi.
He reminded all those protesting in favour and against the current reservation policy of the state that the Supreme Court on March 8, 2021, in the case of Jaishree Lakshman Rao Patel versus Court of Maharashtra and Indrasani versus Union of India 1992, had set the limit for reservation to a maximum of 50 per cent.
“The Supreme Court set the limit prohibiting reservation for any caste or tribe beyond 50 per cent. Hence, it is totally against the Supreme Court verdict and I strongly demand for a review and allocation of 50 per cent for the unreserved category as per the guidelines laid down by the court,” said Kazi as he gave an endorsement for general category of 50 per cent which would allow other communities to also compete for jobs in the state.