Meghalaya’s Cabinet has approved the tabling of the State Reservation Policy Report in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The report, to be presented during the ongoing Budget Session, proposes major changes to how government jobs and seats are allocated among the state’s tribal and non‑tribal communities and is likely to shape political and social debate in the coming weeks.
At the core of the draft recommendations is a proposal to reserve 80% of government job seats for Scheduled Tribes (ST). The report specifies a split of 40% each for the Khasi and Garo communities. It also includes provisions intended for other ST and Scheduled Caste (SC) groups, as well as a component for unreserved categories, though the detailed breakdown for the Jaintia and other groups is framed within those broader provisions.
The state’s current reservation framework dates back to 1972 and has been criticised for not reflecting demographic shifts and changing economic realities. An expert committee appointed to review the policy examined population data and financial implications to judge whether the existing structure remains equitable and sustainable.
Beyond percentage allocations, the committee’s recommendations address representation at the district level by proposing measures to favour local candidates for district‑level posts. The report also seeks to preserve strong legal and administrative protections for tribal populations while balancing claims from different communities.
Cabinet Minister Wailadmiki Shylla had confirmed the Cabinet’s decision on February 16, 2026, but declined to disclose specific figures or the full content of the recommendations ahead of the assembly presentation. Chief Minister Sangma announced the tabling date during his statement on February 17.
The tabling of the report is expected to provoke heated debate in the Assembly and across Meghalaya, where tribal identity and community representation are deeply contested issues. Lawmakers, civil society groups and community leaders from the Khasi, Jaintia and Garo areas are likely to scrutinise the proposals closely during the Budget Session and in subsequent consultations.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalaya-to-table-state-reservation-policy-report-in-assembly-on-february-18-1347312-2026-02-17?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-02-17 09:49:00
