The NSUI Nagaland acknowledges the advertisement for 154 Forest Guard positions under the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. However, it expresses surprise at the collection of additional Rs 100 as an examination fee from candidates who had already submitted their applications.
In an earlier RTI filed by the NSUI, it was revealed that 9,744 candidates applied for 115 Forest Guard posts advertised on 13th January 2023. An examination fee of Rs 200 per candidate was charged, totalling Rs 19,48,800, which has not been reimbursed to the candidates despite the examination being cancelled due to a “Cabinet decision” (as per the RTI reply).
The NSUI Nagaland also pointed out the department’s recent notification (Serial No. 8) that reads: “The balance examination fee of Rs 2,100 shall be collected during the issuance of admit cards, subject to producing a payment receipt.” The Union criticized this clause, calling it “entirely unreasonable” given the financial burden already placed on the candidates. “Many candidates have already incurred substantial costs, including Rs 3,000-5,000 for food, lodging, and conveyance to submit their forms in Kohima,” the NSUI stated in its press release.
Furthermore, the Union raised concerns about candidates who may have lost their payment receipts, as the exam was cancelled without prior notice. “Will candidates who lost their payment receipts due to the exam’s cancellation be required to submit their forms again? More clarity and flexibility on this matter for the aggrieved candidates would be appreciated,” the NSUI demanded.
In addition to seeking reimbursement for the previously paid examination fee of Rs 200, the NSUI Nagaland questioned whether candidates who choose not to apply again will receive a refund of the Rs 2,200 examination fee.
The NSUI Nagaland has also recommended the waiving of the additional Rs 100 fee and urged the department to issue digital admit cards instead of requiring candidates to travel from various districts across Nagaland to Kohima solely for physical copies. “This will ease the financial strain on candidates, particularly those from remote areas,” the Union stated.
Finally, the Union called for the timely conduct of examinations once the new notification is issued, urging the department to avoid further delays. “The recurring cancellation of exams severely impacts aspirants, and it is imperative that the department ensures the examinations proceed without unnecessary postponements,” the NSUI concluded in its press release issued by its media cell.