Kohima: The Confederation of All Nagaland State Service Employees’ Association (CANSSSEA) has announced a symbolic protest against the state government’s recent decision to induct Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers from non-State Civil Service (non-SCS) officers. The protest will commence on September 25, 2025, with employees wearing black ribbons or badges in their offices across Kohima to express their “bitter resentment” over what they describe as the government’s disregard for merit-based recruitment.
Background of the Protest
The protest follows the government’s move to conduct the screening of non-SCS officers for IAS induction without reinstating the Advertisement Circular dated March 10, 2025. CANSSSEA representatives claim that multiple requests and representations to reinstate the circular were ignored, leading to growing dissatisfaction among state service employees. The association views this government policy as bypassing legally established procedures for recruitment into the IAS.
Details of the Protest
The wearing of black ribbons is intended as a peaceful and symbolic form of dissent, restricted to offices within the state capital, Kohima. According to the circular issued by CANSSSEA, all members participating in the protest are required to maintain discipline, adhere to official protocols, and continue attending work regularly. The association has also extended an invitation to employees from unaffiliated associations to join the protest in solidarity.
Concerns Over Recruitment Process
CANSSSEA has expressed serious concerns that the current IAS induction policy undermines merit-based progression by circumventing transparent and legally established recruitment norms. The Confederation warns that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for future appointments to high-level administrative posts, potentially affecting the morale and career prospects of state service employees.
Next Steps and Further Actions
The association has indicated that the protest’s next phases will be decided and communicated by its Core Committee and Action Committee based on the government’s response. This development highlights increasing tensions between Nagaland’s state service employees and the government over issues of transparency and fairness in administrative promotions and appointments.
