Former Karbi Anglong MLA and ex-Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), Jagat Sing Engti, has raised strong concerns over the delay in appointing candidates who cleared the Sixth Schedule Special Teacher Eligibility Test (SSS-TET). He accused the KAAC of showing “apathy” and “inaction” despite thousands of qualified candidates awaiting jobs.
KAAC Faces Heat Over SSS-TET Stalemate
In a press briefing on Wednesday, Engti said the delay in appointments is “unjustifiable” and has left many qualified youth in uncertainty. “It has been months since results were declared, yet no progress has been made. Is this how we treat our educated unemployed youth?” he asked.
The SSS-TET was designed specifically for regions under the Sixth Schedule, including Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao, to recruit teachers from tribal areas. Hundreds of aspirants cleared the exam last year and were expecting timely postings.
Candidates Struggling with Uncertainty On SSS-TET
Several TET-qualified candidates have echoed Engti’s frustration. Many said they have made repeated visits to KAAC offices seeking updates but received no clear response.
“We studied hard, cleared the exam, and even completed document verification. Now it feels like we’ve been abandoned,” said a candidate from Bokajan.
Some candidates also reported financial strain as they continue to remain jobless despite being eligible for government teaching roles.
Engti Accuses KAAC of Political Delay
Engti claimed that the delay appears to be politically motivated. “There is no administrative justification. Funds were allocated, posts are vacant, and the academic session has already begun. This delay only raises suspicion,” he said.
He demanded that KAAC Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang intervene immediately to ensure fairness and uphold the credibility of the selection process.
KAAC Yet to Issue Official Clarification: SSS-TET
The KAAC has not released an official statement on the matter. However, internal sources suggest the delay may be due to procedural bottlenecks and the final approval process pending with the state education department.
A senior KAAC official, on condition of anonymity, said, “We understand the urgency. We’re trying to fast-track the appointments but require clearance from higher authorities.”
Calls for Transparency and Timeline
Engti urged KAAC to publish an official timeline and update the public on the next steps. “Transparency is key. Let the candidates know what’s causing the delay. Give them a date by which appointments will happen,” he insisted.
He also demanded the council create a dedicated grievance redressal cell for TET-qualified candidates to track application and appointment status.
Political Ramifications Loom
With the KAAC elections approaching next year, the TET delay could become a major campaign issue. Engti hinted that this would affect public perception. “People are watching. These are not just teachers, they are future builders. Ignoring them will cost KAAC dearly,” he warned.
The Bigger Picture
The SSS-TET initiative was launched to bridge the education gap in Sixth Schedule areas by ensuring local candidates become school teachers. Delays not only demoralise aspirants but also affect school staffing in remote tribal villages.
Education activists have also stepped in. A student body from Diphu plans to submit a memorandum to the Assam education minister seeking intervention.
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