TYCM urges transparency in MSCST appointment
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 02 2025: Tribal Youth Council Manipur (TYCM), General Headquarters, has urged the state government to immediately issue a public notice inviting applications from elir gible members of the Scheduled Tribes (STs) for the position of chairperson of the Manipur State Commission for Scheduled Tribes (MSCST).

In a press release, the TYCM emphasised the need for a fair, transparent, and merit-based selection process free from political influence.

The organisation expressed concern over the prolonged vacancy of the chairperson post, following the completion of the previous incumbent's three-year tenure, which it said has left the Commission unable to function effectively or serve the tribal communities of the state.

The TYCM reminded the government that the MSCST, established under the Manipur State Commission for Scheduled Tribes Act, 2014, is a quasi-judicial body responsible for formulating policies and safeguarding the rights and interests of Scheduled Tribes, as enshrined in the Constitution and various legal instruments.

It is not a scheme-implementing agency or a political platform, the Council noted.

"The Commission is empowered with judicial authority, including the ability to take suo-motu cognisance of grievances.

The roles of chairperson and members are departmental appointments, not political posts.

Political interference in these appointments compromises the Commission's legitimacy, integrity, and independence," the TYCM stated.

Citing Section 3(2)(a) of the MSCST Act, the Council reiterated that the chairperson must be a Scheduled Tribe member possessing special knowledge and experience in tribal rights and affairs-particularly in legal aspects, customary practices, and socio-cultural issues.

TYCM criticised the state government's failure to invite applications through a public notice, calling into question how candidates are being identified for such a crucial role without an open and inclusive selection process.

"The absence of a public invitation process not only raises concerns of nepotism and favouritism but also denies qualified and deserving individuals the opportunity to apply," the release added.

"Such actions may result in the appointment of relatives or associates of political figures or government officials, which would undermine the Commission's purpose" .

The TYCM has strongly urged the state government to issue a notification at the earliest, inviting applications accompanied by biodata and relevant activity reports from eligible ST individuals across Manipur.

The Council also issued a firm caution against any political interference, insisting that only a suitably qualified individual, selected in accordance with the MSCST Act, 2014, should be appointed as chairperson.

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