KSU demands implementation of 17-point charter of demands for transforming DSC in East Jaintia Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 10, 2024

The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has demanded implementation of a 17-point charter of demands to transform the district selection committee (DSC) of East Jaintia Hills into a more transparent, efficient and credible institution.

In a memorandum submitted to the DSC chairman, the KSU East Jaintia Hills Unit said, “We urge (implementation of) the ‘Seventeen Points Charter for District Selection Committees’ to bring about an effective transparent recruitment and an efficient system.”

The demands include appointment of sufficiently qualified Non – Official Vice Chairman and Non-Official Members of the District Selection Committees with no political affiliations, annual declaration of assets and liabilities by a public servant, applicants to be domicile of Meghalaya and must know Khasi language to be able to apply for any post in DSC in Khasi and Jaintia Hills, adhoc/ Contractual/Casual appointments to be avoided, annual calendar including key dates for examinations to be published by the DSC, public disclosure of marks secured by all the candidates in any examinations, roll numbers of a candidates and any other changes not to take place in between the recruitment process, carbon copy of the OMR sheet to be supplied to the candidates, released of answer key after examination and specific time frame to be given for challenging the answer key, recruitment process to be completed within 6 (six) months from the date of advertisement, abolition of personal interview for Grade B, C and D, annual report by the DSC, question papers to be highly confidential to avoid leakage, creation of Grievances Cell in the DSC, computer based test for mere future, Internet shutdown during examination hours and installation of CCTV Cameras inside Examination Halls.

The KSU said it is pressing need for the comprehensive revamp of the DSC’s recruitment processes for various posts within the district because over time, it has become increasingly evident that there are inherent flaws and inconsistencies in the current system that hinder the selection of the most qualified candidates, leading to dissatisfaction and mistrust among applicants and the general public.

“One of the critical aspects that necessitates immediate attention is the lack of transparency in the recruiting procedures. Transparency is crucial for maintaining the credibility and integrity of the selection process. It ensures that all decisions are made fairly and based on merit, fostering trust and confidence in the DSC’s functioning. Implementing transparent practices, such as clearly outlining the selection criteria, making the evaluation process more objective, and providing timely updates to all stakeholders, will go a long way in enhancing the overall effectiveness and reputation of the committee,” it stated.

“Additionally, a thorough revamp of the DSC’s recruitment methods is essential to align them with modern standards and best practices. This includes updating job descriptions to reflect the evolving requirements of different positions, streamlining the application and evaluation processes, and introducing mechanisms to prevent bias and favouritism,” it said while adding that by embracing these changes, the DSC can enhance its ability to attract and select the most qualified candidates, ultimately benefiting the district by ensuring that competent individuals are appointed to key roles.

“Therefore we urge you to consider these suggestions below seriously and initiate the necessary reforms to transform the DSC into a more transparent, efficient, and credible institution. By doing so, we can uphold the principles of meritocracy and fairness in our recruitment practices, thereby serving the best interests of our district and its residents,” the KSU further stated in the letter.