MAPUSA
The recent decision by the financially strained Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) to hire six new office staff members has sparked widespread concern and surprise among citizens.
The MMC, in an advertisement published in local newspapers, announced its intention to recruit four Lower Division Clerks (LDCs) and two Junior Stenographers on a contract basis for a one-year period.
The new hires are set to receive competitive salaries, with the LDCs earning Rs 25,000 per month and the Junior Stenographers receiving Rs 30,000 per month. The move has prompted a mixed reaction from the public, with many questioning the timing and necessity of these appointments.
Several citizens have pointed out that adding six new office staff to the civic body is a significant decision, particularly given the council’s ongoing financial difficulties.
The MMC has frequently come under fire for its inability to deliver adequate civic services to the residents of Mapusa, making the sudden hiring spree even more perplexing.
Jawaharlal Shetye, a Right to Information (RTI) activist based in Mapusa, expressed his skepticism about the decision.
He highlighted the council’s frequent complaints about a lack of funds, which has hindered essential services like garbage collection and truck repairs.
Shetye questioned whether the addition of new staff would contribute to improving the council’s revenue or service quality.
“This council is already overstaffed, with some employees lacking competence and needing to be encouraged to take voluntary retirement. The decision to hire additional staff defies logic,” Shetye said, echoing the concerns of many locals.
A councilor, speaking on the condition of anonymity, also voiced doubts about the effectiveness of the new hires.
The councilor criticized the MMC’s track record, stating that the current administration has struggled to deliver efficient governance and public services.
“This council has failed to provide good administration in the municipality and civic service to the general public. I doubt this new recruitment will translate into something beneficial,” the councilor remarked.
As the MMC moves forward with its recruitment plans, residents of Mapusa are left questioning whether the decision will lead to any tangible improvements in civic services or if it will simply add to the council’s financial woes.
