KOHIMA, APRIL 5 (MExN): The Core Committee representing the Confederation of All Nagaland State Services Employees’ Association (CANSSEA), Federation of Nagaland State Engineers’ Service Association (FONSESA), Nagaland Secretariat Service Association (NSSA) and Nagaland Finance & Accounts Services Association (NF&ASA) has expressed strong disappointment and concern over the withdrawal of the Vacancy Circular dated March 10 for induction of Non-State Civil Service (Non-SCS) officers into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).
In a press statement, the committee said the associations had earlier submitted a formal letter to the Government objecting to the withdrawal of the circular after the lapse of the 15-day application window, and without any clear justification.
A follow-up reminder was submitted on April 4, 2025, reaffirming its stand that the original circular was fair, transparent, and merit-based—satisfying all eligibility criteria.
The circular issued on March 10 was initially lauded by the associations for setting a precedent—requiring that aspirants for IAS induction must have entered service through the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC), a step that upheld merit and transparency.
However, the abrupt withdrawal via a subsequent circular on March 25, just one day after the application deadline, and the government’s decision on March 27 to re-advertise the vacancy citing Central Government guidelines, raises serious concerns, it went on to state.
The committee emphasized that several meritorious officers who had entered service through the NPSC had already submitted applications before the withdrawal. This action not only undermines their aspirations but also erodes trust in the principles of meritocracy and good governance.
In light of the above, the Core Committee of CANSSEA, FONSESA, NSSA, and NF&ASA have reiterated its demand that the government implement the March 10 vacancy circular in letter and spirit.
It also urged that the selection process be carried forward from among the applicants who had submitted their applications by the stipulated deadline of March 24, based solely on merit and the eligibility criteria laid out in the original circular.
The committee remain steadfast in upholding the sanctity of transparent and just recruitment practices and will continue to advocate for fair representation in the civil services, the press release read.
