Shillong, Aug 25: Independent MLA, Saleng A. Sangma, who was in the opposition and used to criticize the Congress-led government and Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, has joined the government as Co-Chairman of the Meghalaya State Development Reforms Commission (SDRC).
According to communiqué issued by the government on Friday, Saleng has been appointed as Co-chairman of SDRC with effect from the date of assumption of charge, and until further orders under category ‘A+’.
The appointment of Saleng came few months before the five-year term of the ninth Meghalaya Legislative Assembly expires.
Meghalaya will go to fresh Assembly poll in February-March next year.
Political appointees of the state government under category ‘A+” will avail Rs 20,000 honorarium per month, Rs 8,500 (hospitality), Rs 20,000 per month (house rent), free medical benefit, requisition of vehicle (Rs 600 per day) electricity charges ( Rs 5,000 per month), conveyance allowance against allotted car (250 litres petrol per month and 4 litres mobil oil), Rs 2 lakh (for furnishing house) as one time assistance, and Rs 40,000 per annum for maintenance of furniture.