CNTC urges reschedule of CSRE over 'Ahuna' clash

Dimapur, October 15 (MExN): The Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) has appealed to the Nagaland Staff Selection Board (NSSB) to reschedule the upcoming Combined Staff Recruitment Examination (CSRE), citing its clash with Ahuna, the major post-harvest festival of the Sümi community.In a statement, the CNTC said Ahuna “is not merely a holiday but a deeply cherished cultural and traditional occasion celebrating unity, gratitude and indigenous heritage.” It said conducting a “career-defining competitive examination” on the festival day places candidates in a difficult position, forcing them to choose between participating in an important cultural occasion and pursuing employment opportunities.While acknowledging the NSSB’s commitment to conducting recruitment examinations in a “timely and systematic manner,” the CNTC maintained that “administrative convenience should also take into consideration the cultural significance of traditional festivals and the need to ensure equal opportunities for all aspirants.”The council has requested the NSSB and the State Government to postpone the examination to a suitable alternative date so that candidates are not “compelled to choose between their cultural obligations and career aspirations.”It also called for an inclusive approach to examination scheduling, urging the authorities to take into account “the major traditional festivals of Nagaland’s recognised tribes” while preparing future examination calendars to prevent similar conflicts.The CNTC expressed hope that the authorities would consider its appeal sympathetically and take appropriate action in the interest of the student community and the preservation of Nagaland’s cultural heritage.