Meghalaya minister Ampareen Lyngdoh meets protesting VPP President Basaiawmoit

In a significant development, Meghalaya Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh who is heading the committee to review the Roster System, today met protesting VPP President Ardent M Basaiawmoit, urged him to call of the indefinite hunger strike and discuss the Roster System. But the VPP leader insisted on a review of the Reservation Policy instead of the Roster System.

Today is day four of the indefinite hunger strike.

The meeting primarily revolved around the reservation policy, with both Lyngdoh and Basaiawmoit engaging in a spirited debate. Basaiawmoit vehemently demanded a thorough discussion and review of the Reservation Policy.
“The government must review the reservation policy, as our agitation stems from their failure to acknowledge our demand for a comprehensive review,” asserted Ardent M Basaiawmoit.

In response, Minister Lyngdoh expressed her understanding of the points raised by Basaiawmoit and assured he would be given a patient hearing if he comes to the table.

“We are prepared to withdraw our agitation if the government agrees to review the Reservation Policy. Further, we are willing to engage in negotiations with the government if the agenda focuses on the reservation policy,” stated President Ardent M Basaiawmoit adding that Lyngdoh is heading the committee on the Roster System and not the Reservation Policy.

The hunger strike launched by President Ardent M Basaiawmoit was a direct consequence of the Sangma government’s refusal to consider their demand for a reservation policy review.
Responding to the demands of the VPP, the Sangma government promptly announced the suspension of all new recruitments and job advertisements with immediate effect.
It is to mention that on May 17, the VPP organized a sit-in demonstration to protest against the reservation policy. The VPP started its indefinite hunger strike from May 22.

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