The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has urged the Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University to take immediate action in implementing 80% reservation for indigenous Nagas of the state in both teaching and non-teaching positions at Nagaland University and to ensure that all recruitment interviews are conducted on physical mode.

In its representation submitted to Prof. J.K. Patnaik, VC, NU, the Federation stated that as the premier central university in the state, it is imperative that NU reflects the aspirations and welfare of the indigenous Naga people of the state, particularly in matters of employment.

The NSF maintained that the University should prioritize recruiting deserving Naga youth. To support its point, it pointed out that the “lack of permanent commitment” from non-indigenous staff negatively impacts students’ academics, research progress, and administrative efficiency, whereas, “indigenous staff members remain permanently, ensuring continuity, accountability, and long-term contributions to the university’s growth.” The presence of local faculty and administrative staff also ensures that the university functions in alignment with the socio-cultural fabric of Nagaland, it added.

The NSF reminded that it would continue “to be vigilant in all Teaching & Non-Teaching recruitments to ensure our Naga candidates are not deprived of being recruited.”

Additionally, the student body claimed that interviews for various faculty at Nagaland University are being conducted through virtual modes and strongly urged that all interviews for both teaching and non-teaching positions be conducted in a physical, in-person mode at the university premises.

“The credibility of the recruitment process is best upheld through physical interviews, where candidates are assessed in person and documents are verified thoroughly, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s qualifications, communication skills, and overall suitability for the position,” the NSF stated.