SHILLONG: The distribution of tabs to Class 12 students under the state government’s “Mission for Youth Empowerment” scheme has ignited a fresh political controversy, with critics alleging the initiative is being used for personal promotion at the taxpayer’s expense. The immediate point of contention is the discovery that the distributed tabs come with a default, unchangeable wallpaper featuring the picture of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from a section of the public, including the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM), who have categorically termed the mandatory display of the Chief Minister’s image as a “political campaign” rather than a genuine empowerment initiative.
”It is wrong for the CM to forcefully install his picture in tabs used by individuals moreover when such mission or schemes initiated by the Government is at the expenses of exchequer and not at the expense of Conrad K Sangma,” a statement from KHNAM.
Pattern of Personal Promotion Alleged
Critics point to a recurring pattern of personal promotion in government schemes. They highlighted that the cover of the earlier “CM Guide Book” also prominently featured the Chief Minister’s photograph, suggesting a deliberate attempt to link public welfare schemes, funded by the exchequer, directly to the image of the incumbent.
This alleged personalization of government-funded schemes is seen by opponents as a misuse of public resources for electoral advantage.
Beyond the political branding issue, concerns have also been raised regarding the quality and long-term utility of the devices distributed to the students.
”Whether these tabs will benefit the students or not is not sure, since it is reported that these tabs do not last long,” KHNAM noted, casting doubt on the longevity of the equipment provided under the scheme.
The statement further suggested that the primary beneficiaries of the distribution might not be the students, but rather the entities involved in the supply chain: “we are sure that these tabs would surely benefited the contractor or supplier who supplied them.” This allegation hints at potential irregularities in the procurement process, suggesting that the tender awards may have been unduly advantageous to certain firms.
As the controversy deepens, the state government faces increasing pressure to address the allegations of political branding on public property and to provide assurance regarding the quality and transparency of the scheme’s execution.
