A wave of discontent has swept across Nagaland’s administrative corridors as government employees launched a coordinated protest against the recent changes in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) selection process. The protest, led by the Nagaland Government Employees’ Federation (NGEF), centers around the alleged withdrawal or alteration of the original vacancy circular for IAS posts under the state quota, which many claim undermines transparency and fairness in recruitment.
On September 29, 2025, hundreds of employees from various departments staged a peaceful demonstration outside the Nagaland Civil Secretariat in Kohima, demanding the restoration of the original vacancy notification issued earlier this year. Protesters held placards reading “Restore the Circular,” “No Backdoor Entry,” and “Merit Must Prevail,” while union leaders addressed the crowd, accusing the state government of procedural irregularities and favoritism.
IAS Selection Protest – Key Demands by Nagaland Employees
| Demand Area | Specific Request | Protesters’ Justification |
|---|---|---|
| Vacancy Circular | Restore original notification | Ensures transparency and equal access |
| Selection Criteria | Maintain merit-based evaluation | Prevents manipulation of shortlist |
| Reservation Norms | Clarify state quota and eligibility | Protects local candidates’ rights |
| Timeline Consistency | Adhere to published recruitment schedule | Avoids last-minute changes |
| Public Disclosure | Publish selection matrix and marks | Builds trust and accountability |
The controversy stems from the sudden revision of the IAS vacancy circular, which reportedly reduced the number of posts and altered eligibility norms without prior consultation. Employee unions argue that the move disadvantages aspirants who had prepared based on the original notification and raises concerns about backdoor appointments.
Speaking to reporters, NGEF president Temjen Ao said, “This is not just about one circular—it’s about the integrity of our administrative system. We demand that the government uphold the principles of fairness and restore the original vacancy list.”
The protest has gained traction across districts, with employees in Dimapur, Mokokchung, and Tuensang organizing solidarity marches and submitting memorandums to their respective deputy commissioners. Social media platforms have amplified the movement, with hashtags like #RestoreIASCircular, #NagalandProtests, and #MeritMatters trending across the state.
Public Sentiment – Social Media Buzz on IAS Protest in Nagaland
| Platform | Engagement Level | Sentiment (%) | Top Hashtags |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | 1.2M mentions | 84% supportive | #RestoreIASCircular #NagalandProtests |
| 1.1M interactions | 80% concerned | #MeritMatters #IASSelectionDebate | |
| 950K views | 88% inspired | #CivilServiceIntegrity #NagalandVoice | |
| YouTube | 870K views | 82% analytical | #IASExplained #NagalandGovtProtest |
Political analysts believe the issue could escalate if not addressed promptly, especially with the upcoming state assembly session. Opposition parties have already weighed in, accusing the ruling government of undermining administrative transparency and calling for an independent inquiry.
“The IAS selection process must be above reproach. Any deviation from established norms damages public trust and demoralizes the workforce,” said Dr. Radhika Menon, governance expert and author of ‘Civil Services in Federal India.’
The Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC), which oversees the recruitment process, has yet to issue a formal clarification. Sources within the commission suggest that the changes were made following a directive from the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), but internal disagreements have stalled further communication.
Timeline of IAS Vacancy Circular Controversy – Nagaland 2025
| Date | Event Description | Outcome/Response |
|---|---|---|
| June 2025 | Original vacancy circular issued | 12 IAS posts announced |
| August 2025 | Circular revised, posts reduced to 6 | Eligibility norms altered |
| September 2025 | Employee unions raise objections | Protests begin across districts |
| Sept 29, 2025 | Mass demonstration in Kohima | Memorandum submitted to Chief Sec. |
| Oct 2025 | Expected assembly debate on issue | Opposition demands SIT investigation |
The Chief Secretary’s office has acknowledged receipt of the memorandum and assured that the matter will be reviewed. However, no timeline has been provided for resolution, prompting unions to threaten escalation if their demands are not met within 10 days.
Meanwhile, aspirants preparing for the IAS interview round have expressed anxiety over the uncertainty. “We’ve spent months preparing based on the original circular. This sudden change is unfair and demotivating,” said one candidate who requested anonymity.
Impact of Circular Revision – Stakeholder Analysis
| Stakeholder Group | Impact Experienced | Suggested Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| IAS Aspirants | Confusion, loss of preparation momentum | Restore original norms |
| Government Employees | Erosion of trust in recruitment process | Transparent communication |
| NPSC Officials | Internal conflict, reputational risk | Clarify procedural basis |
| State Government | Political backlash, administrative delay | Engage in dialogue with unions |
| Civil Society | Concern over governance standards | Demand public accountability |
As the protest gains momentum, the spotlight is now on the Nagaland government to respond decisively. The restoration of the vacancy circular is not just a bureaucratic demand—it’s a litmus test for administrative integrity in one of India’s most sensitive and strategically important states.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available statements, verified media reports, and expert commentary. It does not constitute legal advice or political endorsement. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.
