The Kuki Students’ Organisation General Headquarters (KSO-GHQ), representing Kuki students across India, has raised objections over alleged discrepancies in the cut-off marks for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates in the recently declared Staff Selection Commission (SSC) General Duty (GD) examination results. In a formal letter to the SSC Chairman, the KSO-GHQ highlighted cases where the cut-off marks for ST candidates in Manipur were set higher than those for General, Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Unreserved categories. The organization argued that such anomalies violate the principles of fairness and disproportionately disadvantage tribal candidates aspiring for positions in central armed forces.
The letter pointed out specific disparities in forces such as the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Border Security Force (BSF). For instance, the cut-off for ST candidates in CISF was set at 113.24, compared to 95.92 for OBC and 100.84 for Unreserved candidates. Similar trends were noted in the BSF and Assam Rifles, raising questions about the criteria used to determine these cut-offs. KSO-GHQ stressed that the high cut-offs for ST candidates contradict constitutional provisions meant to ensure equitable opportunities for marginalized communities. They urged the SSC to review and revise the cut-off marks, factoring in the unique challenges and capabilities of tribal candidates.
“This inconsistency undermines the principles of equal opportunity and fairness,” the KSO-GHQ stated, emphasizing that recruitment policies should uphold inclusivity and social justice. The organization also called attention to the broader implications of such discrepancies, particularly in conflict-affected states like Manipur, where marginalized communities often face systemic challenges. It appealed for immediate corrective measures to ensure that tribal candidates are not unfairly excluded from opportunities in national defense services.
