Kohima, Nagaland, March 4 (HBTV): Raising concerns over the loss of employment opportunities in the postal service, legislator Dr. Tseilhoutuo Ato Rhutso has said in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly that Nagaland's indigenous candidates are being deprived of Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) posts due to the recruitment process favoring higher percentage holders from mainland India.

With 90% of GDS vacancies in Nagaland filled by non-locals, Rhutso stressed that the absence of a recognized common state language is a major disadvantage compared to other northeastern states like Manipur, Assam, and Meghalaya, which have implemented language-based eligibility criteria.

Calling for action, he urged the Nagaland government to adopt the Arunachal Pradesh model and ensure postal service jobs are reserved for indigenous Naga youths.   

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio acknowledged the issue, stating it is the right time to discuss and pass a resolution to address the deprivation of local candidates in the recruitment process.