Meghalaya CM Stands Firm on 1972 Quota Policy as VPP Seeks Higher Khasi-Jaintia Share

Overview

• VPP leader Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit asked the Assembly to raise the Khasi-Jaintia share to 47% while retaining 40% for Garos, citing demographic change and youth employment pressures.
• Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma rejected structural changes, warning that a new formula could invite judicial scrutiny and jeopardize the state’s long-standing 85% Scheduled Tribe reservation.
• The Expert Committee recommended keeping the 1972 distribution intact while introducing a roster system, stronger monitoring and periodic reviews of socio-economic indicators.
• MLA Adelbert Nongrum questioned the committee’s methodology, pointing to duplicate and anonymous submissions and alleging contradictions within its recommendations.
• Opposition leader Mukul M. Sangma urged cautious, internal deliberations to preserve inter-tribal balance, as observers note potential effects on community relations and upcoming local elections.