Kohima, May 5, 2026: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has alleged that a total of 109 appointments were made through backdoor means across 16 government departments in Nagaland, raising serious concerns over transparency, accountability, and adherence to established recruitment procedures in public service.
 |
| Naga Students’ Federation leaders address a press conference in Kohima, alleging illegal backdoor appointments in NPSC and NSSB posts. (TNP) |
Addressing a press conference at Naga Solidarity Park in Kohima, NSF President Mteisuding said the federation had been actively pursuing the issue after uncovering what it described as irregular appointments in various departments. He recalled that the NSF had issued an ultimatum to the state government on March 20, 2026, seeking action against alleged recruitment irregularities and demanding accountability from the authorities concerned.
According to the federation, 13 of the appointments fall under the jurisdiction of the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) and were allegedly made between 2018 and 2021, while the remaining 96 appointments fall under the Nagaland Staff Selection Board (NSSB) and were reportedly made between 2019 and 2023.
ALSO READ: NSCN/GPRN (IM) Eastern Flank Demands Release of Probe Report into Cadres’ Killing
NSF Vice President Vimeyiekho Vitso provided a breakdown of the appointments, stating that 82 individuals were appointed on a regular basis, while 16 were appointed on contract, eight on a temporary basis, two as casual employees, and one on an ad hoc basis. He alleged that these appointments were made without public advertisement, competitive examinations, or compliance with prescribed recruitment procedures.
The federation further claimed that the appointments violated government Office Memorandums issued in 2016 and 2022, which outline mandatory recruitment protocols and standardized formats for appointment orders. According to NSF leaders, bypassing these procedures deprives qualified and deserving candidates of fair opportunities and undermines public confidence in the recruitment system.
The federation stated that its findings were based on information obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act and that investigations are continuing, with additional departments currently under scrutiny.
NSF leaders also informed that the state government has acknowledged the matter and referred it to a cabinet sub-committee for examination. While expressing hope that corrective measures would be taken, the federation warned that it would not hesitate to launch democratic forms of protest if the issue is not addressed satisfactorily.
The NSF maintained that those found to have been appointed illegally should face appropriate action, including termination of appointments where necessary. Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the interests of students and job aspirants, the federation said it would continue to monitor the issue closely and push for a transparent, merit-based recruitment system in Nagaland.
