Mokokchung, 12 February (MTNews): In response to the recent “discordant statement” made by Dr Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, Advisor, School Education & SCERT, during a consultative meeting with the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) and the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) on 7 February 2024, the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has raised concerns and expressed resentment over the Advisor’s “prejudicial and insensitive remarks,” demanding that the Advisor retract his words within 6 days.
In a press release, AKM president Lanutoshi Aier and general secretary Satemmongba said that when Naga society is collectively striving towards meritocracy in both the Government & private sectors on merit basis, the sidelining and negation of a particular tribe over recruitment policies based on linguistic ratios is “totally regrettable and a blatant attempt to obliterate and fragment the aspirations of our young aspiring Naga youths at large.”
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The AKM, in its statement, contemplated the potential consequences if similar policies of maintaining linguistic ratios for recruitment were to be applied across all departments.
“The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) also ponders on the notion that if the same policies of maintaining Linguistic ratios for recruitment are exercised and implemented in all other departments on the pretext of reforming the department, it would be the dooms day for our aspiring Naga youths in particular and the Naga Society in general,” AKM said.
The AKM condemned the Advisor’s statement that “Ao and Sumi candidates will not be recruited for the post of Primary Teacher for the next 10 years” and asserted that all candidates, regardless of their tribe, should have equal opportunities for government positions, emphasizing that recruitment should be solely based on merit rather than tribal considerations.
“It discriminates against those appointed candidates who have secured the post through hard work and honesty. We strongly condemn this statement as it not only provokes more tribal tensions in Nagaland, which is very much prevalent, but also discourages future aspirants who spend their time and effort to acquire a teaching degree,” AKM said.
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Furthermore, the AKM demanded a clarification from the Advisor of SCERT to explain the grounds on which the statement was made and that he retracts his words directed towards the Ao Tribe “specifically within 6 days.”
“Such a statement which is diabolic in nature is not expected from a responsible and intellectual representative who is considered as the Visionary leader by the Nagas. We expect our Advisor to re-polish his divisive mindset while holding the responsibility of School Education department that belongs to the entire Naga citizens,” the apex Ao Naga student body said.
It further stated that the Advisor must “retreat his illusive attempt to morally and psychologically fragment the integrity of our young aspiring youths of the two Tribes and continue his effort to reform the department with an inclusive intent.”
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