The Nagaland government has retracted its earlier decision to regularize the services of 147 contractual assistant professors and librarians, following significant public outcry and an interim report from a High Powered Committee (HPC). The revocation occurred during a Cabinet meeting in Kohima, prompted by persistent protests from the Combined Technical Association of Nagaland (CTAN), the Nagaland NET Qualified Forum (NNQF), and the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF). The NSF intensified the demonstrations by locking down the Directorate of Higher Education.
Government spokesperson and Cabinet Minister KG Kenye acknowledged the procedural missteps made by the Department of Higher Education, which he stated misled the Cabinet. “It is unfortunate that certain lapses have been committed by the Department of Higher Education, which misled the entire Cabinet,” Kenye remarked, highlighting the embarrassment of having to rescind a decision. He explained that the Cabinet had previously been unable to act beyond placing the initial decision on hold due to a lack of corroborating evidence, but the HPC’s interim report provided the necessary foundation for the revised action.
The minister confirmed that the final report from the HPC is expected within two and a half weeks, which will guide further decisions regarding the 147 appointees. Kenye addressed the unavoidable gaps in communication within the department, admitting that the issue had not reached the higher levels of government initially. “It never came up to the Government or the Cabinet’s level earlier,” he stated, attributing this oversight to internal mishaps.
As for accountability, Kenye maintained that any actions taken against responsible officials will be contingent on the HPC’s final findings. He expressed apprehension about potential “serious consequences,” stressing that intent—whether deliberate or accidental—would dictate the government’s response. Transparency is a priority, as the minister stated that the public would be informed of any resulting actions once the final report is released.
Regarding the future of the 147 individuals affected, Kenye indicated that they would not be treated as a homogenous group. The government is considering categorizing them into two or three distinct groups to ensure fairness, with possible pathways leading to the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC). The Cabinet’s decisions moving forward will reflect a commitment to fairness and due diligence in addressing the situation.
Kenye acknowledged the incident as a wake-up call for the government, emphasizing the need for vigilance against unauthorized appointments. This incident has prompted a reassessment of departmental protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future. “We are alert now… and we will be cautious, in fact be vigilant,” he asserted.
Despite the unusual circumstance of the Cabinet reversing its decision, Kenye emphasized the necessity of this move for the greater good. He expressed disappointment over previous unilateral statements made by other ministers and reaffirmed the Cabinet’s collective responsibility. This event underscores a need for mutual trust and accountability within the government.
As the situation develops, the government has assured that the status of the 147 contractual appointees will remain unchanged until the HPC submits its conclusive report. Kenye reiterated the importance of thoughtful deliberation in handling such sensitive matters, hinting at the complexities involved in navigating departmental oversight in Nagaland’s educational landscape.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/govt-says-cabinet-misled-as-absorption-order-is-revoked
Category : Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2025-04-30 23:30:00
