Nagaland: Yimkhiung students declare ‘indefinite agitation’ over teacher shortage in schools

DIMAPUR — Starting February 2, the Yimkhiung Akherü Arihako (YAA) will begin indefinite agitation following the failure of the Directorate of School Education (DoSE) in addressing teacher shortage issue in schools across the Yimkhiung jurisdiction.

The YAA had submitted an ultimatum to the School Education department on January 18 to redress the shortage of teachers within 14 days, “however, the department has failed to give any positive and practical response/action within the given time frame.”

Consequently, the YAA, in a press release on Wednesday, announced that it was “compelled to start an indefinite agitation,” with public rallies to be held simultaneously at Shamator, Chessore, and Pungro towns on February 2.

During the period of the indefinite protest, no government offices will be allowed to open or function except for the NST, administration, home/police, paramilitary, and medical departments.

No schools will be allowed to open or function except for HSLC and HSSLC-related classes and examination centres. The movement of government-registered vehicles will be restricted except for those belonging to the NST, administration, Home/Police, paramilitary, medical departments, and HSLC and HSSLC exam-related duties, the YAA stated.

It also restricted tourists and researchers from visiting or staying at the Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, Mt. Saramati (Thanamir), Stone Caves (Salomi and Mimi villages), Tizü (Moya-Amikioro village), and Chedzü Waterfall (Hakkomute) during the protest.

The Likimro Hydro Electrical Project (LHEP) will not be allowed to operate/function, it added.

While directing all its federating units and members to strictly enforce the restrictions within the purview of the respective unions, the student body said that the department will be solely held responsible “should there be any untoward incidents or whatsoever” during the agitation.

Also read: Yimkhiung Akherü Arihako serves ultimatum to DoSE over shortage of teachers