Shillong: A new RTI report exposes systemic failure in Meghalaya’s disability inclusion efforts. Investigators checked 115 government offices and schools. Results show 95 of these sites employ zero persons with disabilities. Only one facility, the Office of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests in Shillong, has fully implemented the 2016 Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.
Blind Lead Trust director Jitendra Dkhar led the study. His report shows 91 of 100 offices claim a zero percent reservation backlog. This suggests a total breakdown in record-keeping. Dkhar claims officials are dodging their duties. "The official data proves that departments are claiming ‘nil’ backlog simply because they have refused to maintain statutory rosters or calculate carry-forward vacancies since 1995," Dkhar said.
The Social Welfare Department confirmed no new residential homes or training centers opened between June 2018 and March 2026. Officials also claimed they had no data on digital accessibility audits. Regional gaps remain wide. Sixteen of the 20 offices that actually hire disabled staff sit in East Khasi Hills. South Garo Hills, South West Khasi Hills, and Ri Bhoi reported zero hires.
Disability groups and the State DPO Unit want immediate action. They demand a deep audit of vacancies dating back to 1995. The list of demands includes a mandate to fill 50 percent of backlog posts within six months. They also want immediate publication of 100-point reservation rosters. Advocates warned the government that they are ready for indefinite hunger strikes if officials ignore these legal requirements.
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