The current deadlock over the induction of our state service officers into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is more than an administrative dispute.
To the Government of Nagaland and My Fellow Citizens,
The current deadlock over the induction of our state service officers into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is more than an administrative dispute; it is a symptom of a deep and profound governance crisis. I write today in strong solidarity with the collective voice of CANSSEA, FONSESA, NIDA, NSSA, and NF&ASA, whose united stand under the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) highlights a systemic failure that demands immediate correction.
The core demand of the JCC is simple, just, and in the interest of every citizen of Nagaland: that IAS inductions must be based solely on merit, seniority, and transparency, from officers recruited through the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC).
The prestigious IAS post must not be a reward for political connection. It must be the deserved culmination of a career built on merit, efficiency, seniority, and outstanding performance reviews (APARs) for officers who have proven their dedication through the prestigious NPSC examination.
It is a matter of public record that the government withdrew the 10th March vacancy circular after the last date for submission. A critical question demands an answer: why was the screening process conducted without first restoring this crucial circular, despite several representations? The purpose of the DoPT's rules is to eliminate favouritism and ensure fairness. Subverting this process to promote political loyalty is a betrayal of public trust and a gross injustice against every hardworking officer and the people they serve.
This wilful neglect has forced the state's employees to take the extreme step of a pen-down strike. The ultimate burden of this crisis falls upon the Naga public and inflicts crores of rupees in losses to our state—a tragedy that was entirely preventable.
Furthermore, the recurring spectacle of protests is a clear indicator that the government has lost the confidence of the very people and employees it is meant to serve.
The Pillars of a Fair System, Now Undermined
Reward Merit and Experience: It recognises the invaluable grassroots experience and deep understanding of Naga society that NPSC-recruited officers possess.
Provide a Just Career Path: It serves as a crucial incentive, boosting the morale of the entire state services.
Strengthen Administration: It ensures our highest offices are led by officers with a proven track record and a long-term commitment to Nagaland.
The Severe Consequences of Bypassing the Rules
Ignoring this process has led to:
Total Demoralization: The message is that "connection matters more than dedication," crippling efficiency and driving our best officers to despair.
Denial of Expertise: The real victims are the Naga public, who are denied leadership from their own most experienced and understanding officers.
Erosion of Trust: It fosters a culture of arbitrariness and corruption, destroying public faith in our institutions.
A Call to Constitutional Duty and Public Action
The government took an oath on the Constitution of India, which includes a sacred duty to uphold laws like the IAS (Appointment by Promotion) Regulations, 1954. To ignore this is to violate that oath.
The JCC's demands are not extravagant; they are lawful and essential for justice:
Restore and Adhere: Restore the 10th March vacancy circular as the legitimate foundation for the induction process.
Uphold Merit: Ensure induction is only from NPSC-recruited officers, based solely on merits, seniority and APARs, stopping all political patronage.
Ensure Transparency: Guarantee full transparency of the panel list and selection criteria, and withdraw the current biased and illegitimate list.
I now call upon my fellow Nagas to consider: Are these demands not justified? Upholding meritocracy, transparency, and the rights of our hardworking officers is fundamentally about securing a better, more efficient administration for our children and future generations. This fight is for their future.
This is not a request for a favour; it is a demand for the implementation of an enshrined right.
Conclusion
Therefore, before it is too late, I add my voice to the growing chorus urging the State Government to wake from its slumber. It must break from the past practices of bypassing and inaction, correct its errors, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to justice, fairness, and the welfare of the Naga people.
The future of Nagaland's administration and the morale of its workforce depend on this one crucial act of constitutional propriety. The time for action is now.
Kuknalim.
Sincerely,
L Senti Yanger
A concerned citizen