A view of the Department of Art & Culture office in Zunheboto. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | May 22
The Zunheboto Range Students’ Union (ZRSU) has raised serious concerns over the alleged non-functioning and administrative inaction of the Department of Art & Culture office in Zunheboto, as a matter of “serious public concern” that has adversely affected the general public.
In a representation submitted to the Deputy Commissioner of Zunheboto on May 22, the union highlighted a prolonged period of inactivity within the department, claiming that the office has “remained largely non-functional for an extended period,” resulting in significant hardship to the people of the district.
The representation jointly signed by ZRSU President Kitolu S Kibami and General Secretary Tonoka V Zhimomi, further pointed out that many individuals have been deprived of crucial opportunities due to the lack of functioning services, expressing particular concern over its impact on the youth.
Speaking to the media on May 22, Kibami and Zhimomi informed that the union had allegedly been observing the office for over two to three weeks, during which only a peon was reportedly present in the office premises though the office remained locked.
They stated that the department plays a vital role in matters relating to preservation of culture, district libraries, museums, and other public services, adding that prolonged inactivity has affected many individuals and deprived the public of important opportunities.
The ZRSU has urged the district administration to take immediate action, requesting the Deputy Commissioner to initiate an inquiry into the functioning of the department and to ensure that competent officers and staff maintain regular office hours with proper public accountability.
Additionally, the union appealed for the immediate resumption of all citizen-centric services and sought appropriate administrative action against any negligence to prevent recurrence of such situations.
The union also stressed the need for accountability from public servants and stated that it will continue observing the department office, with further issues to be highlighted to the competent authority.
Clarifying that the union holds no personal grievance against the department or its officials, the leaders stated, “To preserve culture is through this esteemed office and they are not able to execute their duty well in the district.” The union expressed hope that the district administration would intervene urgently and address the matter at the earliest.
