Local language proficiency mandatory for government jobs in Assam: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
- In Reports
- 11:55 AM, Jul 11, 2024
- Myind Staff
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that proficiency in the local language is now a mandatory criterion for selection for government jobs. This decision is designed to protect the rights and interests of the Assamese people, he stated. Sarma highlighted that a Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) is insufficient in safeguarding these rights, as it can be acquired after just three years of residency in Assam.
The Chief Minister’s comments follow reactions to a recent notification by the Higher Education Department, which exempted the requirement of PRC for the appointment of Assistant Professors, librarians, and Grade III and IV employees in colleges. Sarma clarified that local language aptitude will be the key measure for ensuring the rights of locals.
Assam Education Minister Ranoj Pegu took to Twitter, stating, “The notice pertaining to the Permanent Residential Certificate (PRC) was issued by the Director of Higher Education without government approval. The DHE has been instructed to withdraw the notice immediately.”
Chief Minister Sarma echoed this sentiment on Twitter, questioning the authority under which the Director of Higher Education (DHE) issued the circular, noting that such directives should only come from the government. The circular from the DHE faced significant backlash, notably from the All Assam Students Union (AASU), which condemned the move and urged the government to act more responsibly towards local people. The AASU demanded the immediate repeal of the circular.
The controversial circular, issued by the Assam Higher Education Department on July 4, informed principals of various colleges that a PRC is not mandatory for the appointment of Assistant Professors, librarians, and Grade III and IV employees. The state government’s new mandate on local language proficiency aims to counteract this directive and reinforce local interests.
Image source: PTI
Comments