Strong Criticism of Bypassing NPSC:
The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has vigorously denounced the recent appointments of assistant professors within the Higher Education Department. The union strongly objects to the alleged bypassing of the mandated recruitment process through the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC), labelling these appointments as arbitrary.
DNSU Leaders’ Statement:
In a press release issued by DNSU president Hinoto P Aomi and general secretary Micheal Kath, the union expressed deep concern over the “blatant disregard for established procedures.” They asserted that this action undermines the fundamental principles of meritocracy, transparency, and fairness within public service recruitment.
Violation of Naga Youth Rights and Educational Integrity:
The DNSU views these appointments as a “gross violation of the rights of qualified and aspiring Naga youth” who have diligently prepared and awaited opportunities through the NPSC. They emphasized that making appointments based on “favouritism and nepotism rather than merit and competence” compromises the integrity of the state’s educational institutions.
Concerns over Institutional Erosion and Educational Quality:
The student body expressed profound concern regarding the “erosion of institutional integrity and the blatant disregard for the established recruitment processes.” They maintained that such arbitrary appointments not only deprive deserving individuals of their rightful opportunities but also severely impact the quality of education provided to students, thereby jeopardizing the future of higher education in Nagaland.
Demands for Action:
The DNSU leaders have put forth the following demands:
Immediate Cancellation: They demanded the immediate cancellation of all appointments made without adhering to the NPSC recruitment process.
Strict Adherence to NPSC: They insisted that the Higher Education Department strictly follow the established recruitment procedures through the NPSC for all future appointments.
Transparency and Accountability: They urged the government to ensure transparency and accountability in all recruitment processes to uphold the integrity of public service.
Thorough Investigation: They demanded a thorough investigation into the matter and called for appropriate action against those responsible for these arbitrary appointments.
Upholding Rights of Naga Youth:
The DNSU emphasized the government’s responsibility to “uphold the rights of Naga youth to fair and equitable opportunities in public service.” They urged the state government to rectify this “grave injustice” and restore the faith of Naga youth in the fairness and integrity of the recruitment processes.
Warning of Further Agitations:
The union cautioned that failure to address this issue would compel the DNSU to launch further agitations to protect the rights and interests of the student community. They affirmed the DNSU’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that merit and transparency prevail in the recruitment of educators, thereby safeguarding the future of higher education in Nagaland.
Shock Over Social Erosion:
The DNSU also expressed shock at the alleged willingness of educated individuals within Naga society to participate in such “unscrupulous practices,” which they believe rob deserving students of the opportunity to appear for the NPSC exam.
Claims of Arbitrary Regularization:
Referring to an RTI reply, the DNSU claimed that “144 posts had been arbitrarily regularised in 2024-25,” a figure they deemed “unthinkable.”
Call for Collective Action:
Declaring their intent to undertake democratic forms of protest against this perceived injustice, the DNSU appealed to all “right-thinking citizens and organisations” to speak out against such “blatant injustice.”