Outdated Census data undermines recruitment process, says Chakhesang Public Organisation

• DIMAPUR — The Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) has submitted a representation to the chief minister, calling for immediate intervention into the recruitment process of the 12th Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) and other state police positions.
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• In the letter, issued to the media on Thursday, the CPO stated that the current recruitment plan reportedly mirrors the models used during the formation of the 9th, 10th, and 11th IR Battalions in 1999, 2002, and 2005, respectively. These earlier models, according to the CPO, were based on the 1991 and 2001 Census data, which no longer reflect the demographic realities of the state.
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• The CPO argued that the continued use of outdated data contradicts the State Recruitment Policy and the job reservation guidelines meant for backward tribes.

Also read: Chakhesang Public Organisation demands review of Nagaland job reservation policy

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• “The CPO is dismayed that such a critical recruitment exercise is being planned without adherence to the official policy framework, thereby undermining the principles of fairness, transparency and justice. It is disheartening that an independent and arbitrary model is being manufactured, potentially disturbing the social fabric and harmony in our state,” stated the representation.
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• Citing government jobs as a vital source of livelihood for indigenous youth, the CPO emphasised the need for a consistent and inclusive recruitment policy. It warned that public unrest witnessed in recent times over recruitment anomalies clearly underscores the urgent need for a fair and accountable system.
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• To rectify the issue, the CPO urged the government to base recruitment distributions on the 2011 Census data—the most recent legitimate demographic database available. Doing so, it said, would ensure fair opportunity for all indigenous tribes of Nagaland.
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• Reaffirming its commitment to peace and progress, the organisation appealed to the chief minister to “address this issue with urgency, correct past discrepancies and initiate a robust policy framework that promotes justice, equity, and equal opportunity.”
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• “We assure you of our full cooperation and contribute actively towards promoting justice, peace and inclusive progress in our state,” it added.