Kohima, Nagaland, April 16 (HBTV): In a strong display of unity, the Combine Technical Association of Nagaland (CTAN) and the Nagaland Net Qualified Forum (NNQF) launched a joint protest today outside the Higher Education Department at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat, demanding the immediate revocation of the government’s controversial order dated December 17, 2024.

The order, which facilitated the absorption of 147 assistant professors and librarians into the Higher Education Department, has sparked outrage among aspiring candidates who deem the move unconstitutional and discriminatory.   

Protesters argue that the decision violates Article 16 of the Indian Constitution, NPSC Rule 9(4), and the Office Memorandum dated June 6, 2016 issued by the Personnel and Administrative Reforms (P&AR) Department, which bans contract appointments.

Shouting slogans, hundreds of aspirants stood in solidarity, waving placards and voicing their discontent over what they called a blatant disregard for fairness and transparency in public recruitment.

Representatives from CTAN and NNQF met with department officials to discuss a memorandum earlier submitted, reiterating their demands. The same memorandum had also been submitted to the chief secretary of Nagaland on April 10.

“If our demands are not met, this movement will only intensify,” said a representative from the protesting groups, adding that the agitation will continue until justice is delivered to the eligible aspirants of Nagaland.

The protest marks a significant moment in the fight for transparency in government recruitment, as voices grow louder against backdoor appointments and for the upholding of constitutional rights.