Kohima, August 29 (MExN): The Nagaland NET Qualified Forum (NNQF) has issued a statement expressing “deep concern” over the Government of Nagaland’s decision to regularise contractual appointments in the Department of Health and Family Welfare.
Referring to a notification issued by the department on August 18, the NNQF said the move to regularise 98 Medical Officers/Junior Specialists along with other contractual posts made during the COVID-19 emergency “contradicts and violates the fundamental right to equal opportunity and meritocracy.”
The Forum said, “We, the Nagaland NET Qualified Forum (NNQF), express deep concern regarding the authorisation for regularization of contractual appointments in the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Nagaland.”
Citing the stand of the Nagaland Medical Students Association (NMSA), the NNQF noted that the notification provides for regularisation through a departmental screening process. “We condemn such move that contradicts and violates the fundamental right to equal opportunity and meritocracy,” it stated.
Declaring its support for the NMSA, the Forum said, “The NNQF stands in solidarity with the Nagaland Medical Students Association (NMSA) in their demand for the revocation of the notification and the fight for merit-based recognition, equitable opportunities, and an accountable, transparent and better healthcare system in Nagaland.”
Calling on the authorities “to uphold the constitutional fundamental rights and to restore the spirit of meritocracy,” the NNQF also appealed to Civil Society Organisations, Non-Governmental Bodies and citizens to support the demand.
“The NNQF reiterates its stand for the right to equal opportunity, meritocracy and solidarity with all those who work towards the building of a more egalitarian society,” the statement added.
