SHILLONG: Meghalaya BJP Vice President and Tura MDC, Bernard N. Marak, has demanded that at least 50 per cent of the workforce in all development projects across Garo Hills be reserved for local residents, citing rising unemployment and increasing dependence on outside labour.
Raising the issue on Sunday, Marak highlighted what he described as an alarming employment crisis among local youth, claiming that nearly 80 per cent remain unemployed, with a significant portion being school dropouts lacking sustainable livelihoods. He stressed that mandatory local hiring would not only generate income but also contribute to social rehabilitation.
Marak urged contractors and project owners to ensure that at least half of their workforce is drawn from the immediate localities where projects are being executed. He argued that such a measure would empower local communities and reduce economic disparity.
The BJP leader also expressed concern over the quality of infrastructure projects executed in the region. Referring to works under schemes such as Gati Shakti, PMGSY, JJM, and various PWD and PHE projects, he alleged that reliance on outside labour has often resulted in substandard outcomes. He further claimed that non-local workers charge higher wages while contributing little in terms of taxes to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council.
To address the growing frustration among youth, Marak announced plans to introduce a support system aimed at engaging school dropouts in daily wage employment. He also revealed that discussions are underway with authorities to promote night schools and distance education programmes, enabling youths to complete their studies while working.
Taking a firm stance on the issue of illegal workers and traders, Marak asserted that individuals operating without proper authorization would not be allowed entry into Garo Hills. He maintained that such measures are essential to safeguard the constitutional rights of indigenous communities under the Sixth Schedule.
He also underscored the role of traditional institutions, stating that land in the region falls under the authority of Akhing Nokmas. Marak clarified that anyone intending to bring in outside labour must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Nokmas, followed by necessary licenses from the GHADC, including Professional, TNT, or Hawker permits.
Warning of strict legal action, Marak stated that contractors and homeowners employing or sheltering undocumented workers would be in violation of Sixth Schedule provisions and could face court proceedings.
Reaffirming the availability of skilled local labour, Marak concluded that thousands of tribal workers are already engaged under various schemes, and stressed that unauthorized infiltration into Nokma lands undermines traditional authority and will not be tolerated.
