Sangtam Students’ Union Kohima opposes absorption of 147 professors, librarians

Published on Apr 17, 2025

DIMAPUR — The Office of the Sangtam Students’ Union Kohima (SSUK) expressed concern and opposition to the recent decision by the Higher and Technical Education department to absorb 147 assistant professors and librarians across all government colleges without conducting any formal recruitment examination or adhering to merit-based procedures.
In a note, the SSUK said that it is dismayed by this arbitrary decision, which undermines the principles of equal opportunities in public employment enshrined in Article 16 of the Indian Constitution.
‘The Union is particularly disturbed by the lack of transparency and due process in the decision, which compromises transparency, meritocracy, and equal opportunity—the core principles that must govern all public appointments. The current absorption bypasses these essential safeguards, leaving thousands of qualified candidates disempowered,’ it read.

Further, it said that appointments to such critical academic positions must be made through the NPSC via an open competitive examination, ensuring meritocracy and accountability, and that the education sector must not become a playground for favouritism and backdoor policies.
SSUK said that it stands in solidarity and extends support to the Combined Technical Association of Nagaland (CTAN), Nagaland NET Qualified Forum (NNQF), and other concerned individuals and organisations in their agitation against the decision made.
The SSUK urged the government to immediately revoke this decision and initiate a proper recruitment process for all assistant professor and librarian posts.
It also called upon other student unions, civil society organisations, and conscientious citizens to stand united against such regressive policies that threaten the integrity of the education system.