Nominated posts still in limbo

The filling of nominated posts in the state continues to remain uncertain, leaving aspirants waiting without clarity. Despite repeated assurances from the government and party leadership that the appointments will be made “soon,” the process has been dragging on, creating frustration within party ranks. Even after nearly two-and-a-half years since coming to power, the Congress government has not been able to complete the appointments in a comprehensive manner.

Soon after assuming office, the government had filled around 37 nominated posts in the first phase, followed by a handful of additional appointments. However, several key corporations and director-level positions across departments are still lying vacant. Interestingly, the tenure of those appointed in the first phase is also nearing completion, adding urgency to the situation. Recent meetings among senior party leaders indicate ongoing discussions, but no final decisions have been reached on several crucial posts.

Differences among leaders appear to be the main hurdle. There is no consensus on appointments to major corporations such as RTC, Beverages Corporation, Renewable Energy (REDCO), Textiles, Human Resource Development, Education Infrastructure, and the Musi Riverfront project. While one section of leaders is pushing for giving these positions to sitting MLAs, another group argues that priority should be given to senior leaders and loyal party workers who were denied election tickets but have worked for the party over the years.

Adding another layer to the debate, some senior ministers are reportedly lobbying to secure positions for their close aides, while others insist that only those who have genuinely contributed to the party should be rewarded. Party insiders believe that assigning posts based on merit and dedication would help build confidence among the cadre, rather than distributing them as favors.

The demand for social justice in appointments is also gaining traction within the party. Leaders are reminding the high command that in the first phase, a majority of posts were allotted to just one or two communities. As a result, there is now growing pressure to ensure fair representation of all social groups in the second phase of appointments.

Meanwhile, several caste-based federation bodies are still functioning without appointed governing members and continue to be run under official supervision. These include federations representing Rajaka, Nayi Brahmin, Vaddera, Sagara, Valmiki Boya, Krishna Balija, Bhatraju, Shalivahana (Kummari), Vishwabrahmin, Meda, and Gita industrial cooperative groups. Party leaders believe that filling these posts would create a positive environment among these communities and strengthen support for the government.

Sources indicate that the party’s state in-charge has advised the PCC leadership to expedite the process by collecting recommendation letters from key leaders and initiating appointments without further delay. Alongside nominated posts, the leadership has also stressed the need to complete the formation of District Congress Committees, with full executive bodies already announced in 14 districts. Emphasis is also being placed on maintaining social balance in party positions as well.

With internal differences still unresolved, the delay in filling nominated posts continues to test the patience of party workers, even as expectations for a fair and timely second phase grow stronger.