Shillong: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) is demanding answers from the Meghalaya government over recruitment policies for deficit colleges. Mawlai MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang met with the Commissioner of Education on Tuesday to challenge an effective 37-year age limit for new hires. Marbaniang argues the cap unfairly targets highly qualified candidates who spend years earning post-graduate degrees, clearing the National Eligibility Test, and finishing PhD research.
He asserts that neither UGC regulations nor the Assam Aided College Rules, which Meghalaya follows, authorize such an age cap. The MLA claims the state is indirectly enforcing this rule despite no legal backing. He warned that the government must clarify its stance or risk shutting out top-tier educators who reach age 35 to 37 by the time they finish their studies.
The VPP also flagged a major breach of trust regarding teacher salaries. During a recent Assembly session, the Chief Minister promised to keep UGC pay scales for deficit college staff. However, an Education Department letter from September 16, 2026, claims the UGC pay scale has ceased. Marbaniang labeled this contradiction a serious matter that could reach the level of a breach of privilege. He wants to know if the decision had actual Cabinet approval or if it was just an administrative whim.
The party is also pushing for clarity on delayed Dearness Allowance payments. While the Central Government raised the DA from 58 per cent to 60 per cent on January 1, 2026, the state had not approved the hike as of October 21, 2026. Addressing the need for fair treatment of staff, Marbaniang stated, "If you say that you want to improve education in Meghalaya, it is not just about infrastructure. What is more important is human resources and the welfare of teachers."
The VPP is seeking a firm timeline for all arrears and legal justifications for the proposed salary changes. The Commissioner of Education has promised to review these concerns within one week.
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