TYCM submits memorandum to CM
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 13 2024: The Tribal Youth Council Manipur (TYCM) has submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister N Biren Singh on October 7, 2024, addressing critical issues concerning the Manipur State Commission for Scheduled Tribes (MSCST), Tribal Affairs & Hills Department, and the Tribal Research Institute (TRI).

According to a release issued by TYCM, the memorandum listed 6 key demands including the nomination of Members and appointment of full-time Member Secretary for the MSCST.

In the memorandum, TYCM called for the immediate nomination of two Members and the appointment of a full-time Member Secretary for the MSCST, as required under the Manipur State Commission for Scheduled Tribes Act, 2014 .

The Council pointed out that the MSCST has been operating with only the Chairperson since 2022, while the two Members positions remained vacant.

"As per Section 3(a)(b) of the Manipur State Commission for Scheduled Tribes Act, 2014, the Commission must comprise one Chairperson and two Members.

The absence of these two Members has significantly impaired the functioning of the Commission, hindering its ability to fulfill its statutory responsibilities", it added.

The Council highlighted that the geographical distance between the offices (Manipur Secretariat, Imphal, and ADC Bhawan, Shangakpham, Imphal East) have hindered efficient functioning of the MSCST.

Another key demand raised by the TYCM was the filling of vacant posts and regularization of staff in the MSCST.

The TYCM demanded the filling of vacant posts, including Research Officer, Senior Legal Officer, and Clerical Staff; and regularization of 8 Clerical Staff members, who have been serving the MSCST for over seven years.

Pointing out that the current allocation of Rs 90 lakh for the MSCST is insufficient, the TYCM urged the Government to increase this to Rs 10 crore and create a separate fund head under the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes.

The memorandum also highlighted the delay in releasing benefits under the Tribal Affairs & Hills Department for the financial years 2022-23 and 2023-24 .

The TYCM called for the induction of a dedicated Director for the Department to enhance administrative efficiency.

The TYCM also stressed the importance of revitalizing the TRI and resuming the Tribal Cultural Festival Program, which has not been conducted since 2019 .

The Council also urged the Government to increase the TRI's fund allocation to support research, cultural preservation, and tribal development programs.

The TYCM also urged the Government to increase funding for the Tribal Affairs & Hills Department, which is essential to improve road infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for the tribal population.

Furthermore, the TYCM urged the Government to take immediate steps to address these pressing issues for the overall welfare of the tribal communities in Manipur.

Comment