Amaravati, May 12: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reiterated his government’s firm commitment to providing 100% reservation in government jobs for local tribal populations in the state’s agency areas. During a high-level review meeting with officials from the Tribal Welfare and Law departments, Naidu emphasized the importance of restoring the benefits that were once extended through Government Order (G.O.) No. 3, issued in 2000 by the erstwhile undivided Andhra Pradesh government.
The G.O. was originally introduced to ensure full employment opportunities for tribal communities in their native regions, especially in teaching posts. However, it was struck down in 2020 following a series of legal challenges that began in 2002. The Chief Minister noted that the previous government failed to file a review petition in a timely manner, which ultimately led to the Supreme Court dismissing the order altogether. "Because of this negligence, thousands of tribal individuals were deprived of the benefits they were rightfully receiving," Naidu remarked.
Studying Legal Avenues for Reinstating G.O. No. 3
The Chief Minister directed officials to explore all possible legal avenues to reinstate G.O. No. 3 or implement an alternative mechanism that guarantees similar benefits. He has asked for a comprehensive legal study on the implications of the Supreme Court judgment and has proposed consulting constitutional and legal experts at the national level to navigate the complexities involved.
“The spirit of our election promise is clear — to restore justice to the tribal communities. We are committed to their socio-economic upliftment through rightful representation in employment and access to quality education and healthcare,” Naidu asserted.
Exploring Options to Safeguard Tribal Rights
Officials presented three options currently under consideration:
1. Reinstating 100% reservation in agency area jobs for local tribals.
2. Providing reservations proportionate to the tribal population in respective regions.
3. Implementing a modified reservation policy in line with Supreme Court guidelines, capping it at 50%, while still safeguarding tribal rights.
Naidu affirmed that his government would pursue the most effective and legally sound path. “Every possible step will be taken to ensure justice for the tribal people. We will not let go of a single opportunity to improve their lives,” he said.
Context and Impact
The original G.O. No. 3, issued in 2000, was a continuation of policies dating back to 1986, which had guaranteed 100% reservation for tribal candidates in teacher posts within agency areas. The implementation of the 2000 order led to the recruitment of over 4,600 tribal teachers. However, after prolonged litigation, the Supreme Court annulled the G.O., creating a significant setback for tribal employment opportunities.
Now, with the revival of this issue under the new administration, hopes have been rekindled among tribal communities. The Chief Minister has also directed officials to gather inputs from tribal representatives and welfare organizations to ensure a participatory and transparent approach.
In conclusion, Naidu reiterated his government’s unwavering resolve to not only restore the lost entitlements but also to strengthen tribal welfare through targeted developmental schemes, improved educational infrastructure, and enhanced healthcare services in tribal regions.
“We will consult the nation’s top legal and constitutional minds to ensure that justice is done and that the rights of our tribal brothers and sisters are upheld,” the Chief Minister concluded.
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