Kohima: Government offices across Nagaland remained shut for the second consecutive day on Wednesday as the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) continued its pen-down strike. The protest is against the proposed induction of a non-Nagaland Civil Service (NCS) officer into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) cadre, with employees demanding strict adherence to merit-based and state-specific recruitment norms.
Strike Enters Third Phase with Full Support Across Departments
The JCC, representing five major state government employee associations — CANSSEA, NIDA, NSSA, NF&ASA, and FONSESA — launched the third phase of their ongoing protest on Tuesday. Employees from directorates, districts, and sub-divisional offices showed full solidarity by participating in the pen-down strike, which remained peaceful and orderly throughout the day.
A spokesperson for the JCC said that the protest reflects widespread concern among government employees about the violation of established recruitment procedures and the impact it could have on the career progression of state cadre officers.
Read also: Nagaland Government Employees Begin Three-Day Pen-Down Strike Over IAS Induction Controversy
Demand for Withdrawal of Non-State Cadre Officer’s Name and Reinstatement of NPSC Clause
During a meeting held on Wednesday, Chief Secretary Sentiyanger Imchen met with leaders of the JCC to discuss their demands. The associations urged the government to withdraw the name of the non-state cadre officer whose induction has been recommended to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
The unions also pressed for reinstatement of the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) clause in future IAS inductions. They pointed to Office Memorandums issued in 2001 and 2016, which clearly mandate recruitment through the NPSC or by open advertisement, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
Government to Place Matter Before State Cabinet
Chief Secretary Imchen assured the JCC leaders that the issue would be placed before the state Cabinet for consideration in its meeting scheduled for Thursday. The government is expected to review the concerns raised by the employees and make a decision accordingly.
Future Course of Action Hinges on Cabinet Decision
The JCC stated that it would evaluate the Cabinet’s decision before deciding on any further steps. The conclusion of the current protest phase is expected to coincide with the Cabinet meeting, allowing the unions to assess the government’s response before moving forward.
The ongoing strike and the concerns raised highlight the sensitivities around cadre allocation and recruitment processes in Nagaland, reflecting the importance of protecting local interests in administrative services.
