In a significant move advocating for the rights of Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates from Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong, Dr.Tuliram Ronghang ,CEM has submitted a memorandum to Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Hon’ble Minister of State for the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), Government of India. The memorandum was presented at the New Parliament in New Delhi, calling for an exemption from the requirement of a Modern Indian Language (MIL) in the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination.
This request is not arbitrary, it stems from a commitment made in the Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) signed on September 4, 2021. The MoS clearly highlighted the necessity for such an exemption for candidates hailing from the hill districts of Assam, recognizing their unique educational and socio-economic challenges. As noted in the memorandum, these circumstances align closely with those faced by other tribal communities in North Eastern states, where similar exemptions have already been implemented.
Ronghang emphasized the pressing need for this exemption, stating that students from Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong are often left with no choice but to select their mother tongue or opt for Alternative English. This situation places them at a considerable disadvantage compared to their peers who can choose a major Indian language, which is a crucial component of the UPSC exam. The memorandum calls on the Ministry to acknowledge the legitimacy of this request, which is vital for leveling the playing field for tribal youth in these districts.
The memorandum was supported by several prominent figures, including MP Shri Amarsing Tisso, and MLAs Darsing Ronghang, Bidya Sing Engleng, and Rupsing Teron, along with Executive Members Mr. Lunsing Teron and Mr. Surjya Rongphar. Notable former officials like Dr. Mongve Rongpi, Ex-MP and CEM Dr. Jayanta Rongpi, and Ex-MLA Dr. Dharamsing Teron was also in attendance, showcasing a united front in advocating for the rights and futures of these young candidates.
By granting this exemption, the government would be taking a significant step toward empowering tribal youth and enabling them to pursue their aspirations in civil services on an equal footing with their contemporaries from other North Eastern states like Mizoram, Nagaland, and Meghalaya.
