The emergency cabinet meeting have decided to constitute a committee to conduct an in-depth study of the ongoing controversy behind regularisation of contractual teachers in Nagaland.
The meeting was convened today at the Chief Minister’s Residential Complex in Kohima amid ongoing protests led by the Combined Technical Association of Nagaland (CTAN) and the Nagaland Net Qualified Forum (NNQF).
Following the discussions, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, KG Kenye, addressed the media, stating that the cabinet had examined the issue in detail after reviewing inputs from the concerned department. He acknowledged the complexities that led to the current situation over the past few years.
“We fully understand the grievances of both parties, as there are multiple factors to consider before arriving at a final decision,”Kenye said.
To resolve the matter, the government has decided to immediately constitute a committee comprising four or five officers. This committee will conduct an in-depth study of the issue and submit recommendations before any final decision is made.
Kenye appeal to all parties to exercise restraint and maintain a conducive environment in the state, keeping in mind the interests of students, teaching faculty, and qualified aspiring teachers.
“This committee will conduct a neutral assessment.” he said .
The committee’s head will be announced within the next day or two, and the body is expected to complete its review within seven to eight weeks.
Pending the committee’s findings, the 147 teachers in question will retain their current positions. Kenye urged protestors to avoid further agitation and confrontation, emphasizing the government’s commitment to resolving the issue fairly.
“The government takes this matter very seriously, as it directly impacts the education sector,” he said. “We do not wish to antagonize teachers at any level, nor do we want students to suffer disruptions in their academic preparation.”
In the interest of the state, he appealed to protestors to call off their agitation and allow the government time to reach a resolution.
When questioned about unpaid salaries for some contractual staff, Kenye acknowledged the problem but noted that financial constraints affect multiple departments, not just education.
“Nagaland faces resource limitations, leading to challenges in financial management,” he said and expressed hope for everyone’s understanding as they work through these difficulties.
A comprehensive review of the issue will be conducted by the newly formed committee to provide a clearer picture of the underlying causes and potential solutions.
