Eastern Nagaland officers’ body warns of legal action over defamation

DIMAPUR — The Eastern Nagaland Gazetted Officers’ Association (ENGOA) has warned that it will initiate legal action against any individual, association or group that vilifies or defames its members without valid cause through any medium, including print, electronic or social platforms.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the association expressed strong exception to what it termed “unwarranted and defamatory vilification” of its president, Dr. Anungla Imdong Phom, in connection with the recent induction of non-SCS officers into Indian Administrative Service (IAS).

It described the ‘personal attacks’ as ‘baseless, unjustified, and contrary to the principles of fairness, administrative propriety, and the rule of law,’ adding that any selection made in accordance with the department of Personnel and Training framework and the Union Public Service Commission procedure is lawful and binding.

It expressed displeasure over attempts by certain individuals and entities to “maliciously misinterpret” statutory provisions and to engage in “public vilification and character assassination” of an officer who was lawfully shortlisted through due process.

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“Such public vilification on social and print media platforms, without logical or factual analysis of the procedural framework, is both unethical and legally untenable,” the ENGOA stated.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the dignity and integrity of officers from eastern Nagaland, the association urged all sections to exercise restraint and responsibility, and to refrain from unverified or divisive commentary.

It further expressed full faith in the competent authorities to address the matter in accordance with law, fairness and equity among all Nagas.