IT News
Imphal, Jan 22:
The Tribal Youth Council Manipur (TYCM), General Headquarters, has strongly urged authorities to revoke the appointment of John Gaidingam D., Administrative Officer-cum-Research Officer of the Tribal Research Institute (TRI), as the in-charge Deputy Director of the Directorate of Tribal Affairs & Hills, Manipur. The appointment, issued under Order No. TA-101(1)/8/2024-e-TA&H dated November 12, 2024, has been made as a temporary arrangement to address manpower shortages. However, TYCM claims this additional duty is unwarranted given Gaidingam’s inability to fulfill his existing responsibilities.
In a statement, TYCM criticized the decision, noting that the TRI office has remained non-functional since May 3, 2023. The absence of key officials, including the Director and Research Officer-cum-Administrative Officer, who have been operating from the Directorate of Tribal Affairs & Hills, has disrupted TRI’s operations and raised doubts about its capacity to serve tribal communities effectively.
During an inspection by TYCM-GHQ on December 17, 2024, accompanied by media personnel, only three staff members were found at the TRI office. It was revealed that no programs had been initiated or conducted since May 2023. Additionally, the offices of the Director and Research Officer were locked, with staff confirming that these officials had not been attending the TRI premises. The inspection also uncovered significant neglect, including animal waste inside the office, indicating poor maintenance.
TYCM-GHQ had previously submitted a representation to the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Tribal Affairs & Hills Department on December 19, 2024, requesting the immediate cancellation of the order appointing Shri Gaidingam and urging the restoration of full functionality at the TRI office. They emphasized the need for all staff, including the Director, to be physically present at TRI to ensure its effective operation.
Despite repeated appeals, no action has been taken to address these concerns. TYCM continues to advocate for prompt intervention to address the challenges faced by TRI and ensure it fulfills its mandate to serve tribal communities in Manipur.
