The Khun Hynñiewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) is in a disagreement with the State government’s decision to allow the expert committee, constituted to review the reservation policy, to make visits stating it was a waste of time.
“We do not see the necessity for the expert committee to waste time and money by visiting every location in the State. We would suggest that all stakeholders be allowed to submit their views and suggestion to the EC within a specific time frame for study and verification which would allow the EC to complete its task within three months,” KHNAM said.
In a letter to Chief Secretary, Donald P Wahlang the party said it was an option for delay which is unnecessary.
KHNAM President, Pyndap Saibon also stated that there is a mismatch between the resolution taken at the all party meeting held on May 31 and the proposed terms of reference proposed by the cabinet.
“The resolution was to constitute an expert committee for the purpose of review/amendment of the Reservation Policy, 1972 whereas in the terms of reference proposed is to study the current policy and recommend modification, if necessary”, Saibon said.
He said the party wants the term of reference of the committee to be specific and clear, that is, “to verify the recommendation received from the political parties and recommend modification of the policy.”
Further, the party also demanded inclusion of indigenous tribes as members of the committee to enable it to understand the aspects of the policy and the aspirations of the people.
It may be mentioned that the expert committee headed by former judge of Madhya Pradesh High Court, Justice Mool Chand Garg has been tasked to examine the existing reservation policy and make proposals for any necessary modifications and undertake comprehensive consultations with all stakeholders and conduct visits to various locations across the State to gather inputs.
The expert committee has been asked to complete its work and submit its report to the State government within 12 months.
