23-year-old Manoj Kumar, a visually impaired man from Jehanabad, Bihar, had dreamt of bagging a government job to secure his future. He even cleared the Group C Junior Clerk (PWD) Railway examination under “Visually Handicapped (VH)” category in a single attempt and received his provisional appointment letter in July. However, the journey that had been smooth so far, turned out to be a nightmare.
As per the appointment letter, Manoj secured the job of a Junior Clerk cum Typist and was asked to report at East-Central Railways’ Mahendrughat office in Patna. But, when he reported at the office on July 13, he was told that there was no vacancy under the VH category and they wanted a “normal” person as a clerk in their branch.
After returning home dejected, Manoj came to know that his file was sent to the headquarters in Hajipur. But in Hajipur as well, Manoj met with the same story. His file was then transferred to Samastipur, but from there also he was sent back as they didn’t have any vacancy for VH category.
In a conversation with The Logical Indian, Manoj’s brother Mahesh said, “My brother is only facing disappointment wherever he is going. Every time he reaches a door to seek help, he is being turned down. I know they are expecting a bribe from our side.”
Wherever Manoj went, he faced disappointment and lack of help and understanding. Everyone else from his batch who appeared for the examinations under the “Handicap” category has got their posting information and has also started working. It is only Manoj and his friend BH Shashikant who are still being shunted from one city to another.
With no options left, Manoj sought for help from the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) and Ministry of Social Justice last month. Yet, no help has arrived till now and no progress has been achieved.
The Logical Indian contacted Manish Mishra, an official from Samastipur railway office. He said, “A fresh appointment letter will be dispatched within two-three days and Manoj will be able to join the office in December.”
However, Mahesh told that the officials have been saying the same for the last three months and no action has been taken.
The Logical Indian requests the CCPD to look into the matter and expedite Manoj’s appointment at the office, which he deserves legitimately. We hope that Manoj receives the appointment letter for December and is able to join work without further problems. We will follow the progress of the case and reach concerned authorities and channels for further help.
