Ao Students’ Conference supports CANSSEA’s pen down strike, calling for transparency and meritocracy in Nagaland’s civil services.
MOKOKCHUNG — The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has expressed strong support for the ongoing pen down strike initiated by the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) under the Confederation of Nagaland State Service Employees’ Association (CANSSEA), emphasising its importance in upholding meritocracy for the benefit of the Naga people.
In a statement issued on October 15, the AKM objected to the induction of non-state civil service officers into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), describing the move as a threat to established norms.
“The AKM supports the ongoing democratic protest and is of the opinion that every right-thinking citizen and responsible organisation must work cohesively towards a common goal,” the AKM stated and appealed for unity among all stakeholders in the larger interest of the Naga community.
The AKM commended CANSSEA for its swift action and acknowledged the backing from affiliated associations.
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“We appreciate the prompt action by CANSSEA, and acknowledge the affiliated associations who came out strongly in support of the move by CANSSEA, as it not only determines the present but guarantees a secure future free of corruption and a system which needs thorough revamping,” it stated.
AKM urged the government to prioritise a rigorous selection process for IAS inductions, one that is entirely free from nepotism and favouritism, while safeguarding the rights and interests of existing civil servants.
“Any deviation from this principle can undermine the credibility and effectiveness of our administrative machinery,” the AKM warned.
Reaffirming solidarity, Ao Students’ Conference declared, “We stand with CANSSEA in their demand for a fair and transparent process that upholds the value of the service rules. Let us work together to ensure that our civil services remain meritocratic, efficient, and accountable to the people.”