Shillong, July 7: No material evidence has been found to support allegations regarding safety of trainees undergoing on-the-job training (OJT) under a skill development programme in Pune, the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) stated on Tuesday.
The Society made the statement after completing initial verification into the allegations and reports circulating on social media and in sections of the media.
Asserting that welfare of trainees remain the government’s top priority, the Society said, “The Government of Meghalaya considers the safety, dignity and welfare of every trainee to be paramount. Every concern is acted upon promptly, examined objectively and addressed through established procedures.”
Following the allegations, the Society directed the concerned Training and Placement Provider (TPP) on July 1 to contact all trainees and offer immediate return to the state at government expense.
However, only two trainees, including the complainant, chose to return and arrangements were made by the Society “without any delay”.
The remaining trainees were also informed that they could return, but they opted to continue with their OJT and placement, the Society said.
It said verification into the allegations were made through interactions by local police in Pune, representatives of National Volunteers Meghalaya, an NGO based in the city, and a separate video conference conducted by MSSDS.
“Based on these enquiries, no material or testimony has emerged thus far to substantiate the allegations against either the employer or the empanelled TPP,” it said.
The trainees who decided to stay on told MSSDS that they felt safe and were comfortable with the training environment, the Society stated.
They also expressed concern that unverified allegations could hurt the reputation of their batch and discourage employers from hiring youth from Meghalaya, it added.
According to the Society, the complainant had earlier been counselled on workplace discipline and protocols.
The complainant had enrolled for the Senior Beauty & Spa Therapist course after accepting an offer letter detailing the job role and terms.
The programme is fully sponsored by the government and covers training, travel, accommodation and a monthly stipend of Rs 4,000 during OJT.
All related records have been shared with authorities for independent examination.
MSSDS said it follows a structured placement process where empanelled TPPs must conduct due diligence of employers.
Candidates also undergo counselling and orientation at every stage to ensure they understand job roles, remuneration and workplace expectations.
“The Beauty & Wellness sector is a recognised professional industry offering skilled, dignified and remunerative careers with opportunities for long-term growth,” the Society noted, adding that unverified narratives could undermine skill development programmes and employment opportunities for youth.
MSSDS said the matter still remains under examination.
“If any violation by any stakeholder is established through due process, the Government will take the strictest action available under law and the applicable contractual framework,” it stated.
Reaffirming its commitment, the government said it remains focused on safe migration, ethical recruitment and transparent placement processes “in the best interests of the youth of the State.”
