Kohima, October 7: In a sharp escalation of their agitation, a coalition of major service associations in Nagaland has declared a three-day statewide pen down strike beginning October 14, 2025. The protest comes in response to the inclusion of a non-NPSC candidate in the select list of Non-State Civil Service (Non-SCS) officers for induction into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
The associations accused the State Government of “subverting meritocracy” and showing a “nonchalant attitude” by refusing to address their demand for the withdrawal of the candidate, whose name was shortlisted on September 25.
In a joint statement, the associations said, “While it is expected of the Government to uphold merit, it is observed that the Government is in favour of ushering in backdoor officers into the country’s most prestigious service such as the IAS.”
The strike will add to ongoing protests, which so far have included black ribbon and badge wearing, as well as poster campaigns. It is being enforced by several associations including the Confederation of All Nagaland State Services Employees Association (CANSSEA), Federation of Nagaland Senior Engineers Service Association (FONSESA), Nagaland Finance & Accounts Service Association (NF&ASA), Nagaland In-service Doctors Association (NIDA), and Nagaland Secretariat Service Association (NSSA).
The bodies have placed two key demands:
1. Withdrawal of the non-NPSC candidate from the IAS select list of September 25.
2. Restoration of the Vacancy Circular dated March 10, 2025, to ensure merit-based and transparent future selections from the Non-SCS category.
The associations assured that modalities will be worked out by respective departments to exempt essential and emergency services during the strike. Members have also been directed to maintain official protocol and attendance throughout the peaceful protest.
The statement was signed by Zubemo Lotha Tsanglao (Convenor, Core Committee & President, CANSSEA), Yhunsenlo Kent (Convenor, Action Committee), Er. Fineson Pojar (Co-Convenor, Core Committee & President, FONSESA), Amenla Jamir (President, NF&ASA), Dr. Vietsolie Vupru (Co-Convenor, Core Committee & Gen. Secretary, NIDA), and Benito K Swu (Co-Convenor, Core Committee & Gen. Secretary, NSSA).
