Shillong, Aug 26: The state cabinet has suggested installing CCTV and recording all interviews by the Meghalaya Public Service Commission (MPSC) to ensure transparency.
This was in addition to the reforms of the MPSC, which were approved by the government.
Speaking to reporters after the second cabinet retreat held at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel in the city on Tuesday, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said that the cabinet has taken into consideration the report of the MPSC Reforms Committee, 2025.
The report outlines long-term, medium-term and short-term initiatives that can be taken to ensure necessary reforms to make MPSC more transparent and efficient.
The short-term measures proposed include the formation of multiple interview boards to speed up interviews, clear interview protocols outlining the process and systems.
Other measures include conflict of interest reviews (e.g., recusal if a board member has a relative being interviewed), declaration of assets and liabilities by the chairman and committee members, annual calendar for MPSC activities and preparation of annual reports, establishment of a grievance cell among others.
Moreover, the candidate’s roll numbers will remain unchanged during recruitment and notification of personal interview marks and public disclosure of candidate scores will be made.
The MPSC will maintain strict confidentiality of question papers, with clear procedures to prevent leaks.
No changes will be allowed to the recruitment process once it starts.
Publishing candidate-to-vacancy ratios and release of answer keys post-exam, with a defined window for challenges, are other reforms.
The MPSC will address corruption and vigilance issues under the Meghalaya Lokayukta Act, 2014.
The medium-term and long-term suggestions include:
1. Shift to computer-based tests.
2. Strengthen MPSC cells in Jowai and Tura
3. Combine exams with similar qualifications and scales to avoid repetition and delays.
4. Continue the use of optional papers, as done in the MPS and MCS exams, and extend it to others.
The full report will be made public by the government.
