Nagaland legislators are questioning recruitment criteria for state police constables. This follows 80 unfilled posts in a recent recruitment drive. The issue arose in the Assembly on Monday during Question Hour. The drive aimed to fill 1,176 police constable positions in January 2026.
Vacancies and Concerns
NPF MLA Tongpang Ozukum highlighted the 80 vacant posts. He stated the recruitment was a significant chance for unemployed youth. Ozukum pointed out the vacancies were spread across five districts. Mokokchung district had the highest number of unfilled posts with 43. Tuensang district had 32 vacancies. Tseminyu had three, and Longleng and Wokha had one each.
Ozukum suggested these vacancies be offered again. He proposed a separate recruitment drive or adding them to future recruitments. Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton confirmed the 80 vacant posts. He stated there would be no immediate separate recruitment for these specific roles. Patton assured the House these vacancies would be reserved. They will be carried forward as backlog vacancies in the next recruitment drive.
Reviewing the Process
MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu praised the physical and medical tests. However, he raised concerns about the written examination. Nienu noted that candidates with basic qualifications competed against highly educated graduates. He suggested reviewing the system for fairness to candidates from less advantaged areas.
MLA Achumbemo Kikon proposed reducing written test weightage. He suggested increasing emphasis on physical tests. Kikon stated constabulary duties require more physical strength and field work.
Government Response
Deputy Chief Minister Patton stated the government would examine the suggestions. He confirmed the recruitment system would be reviewed. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio agreed police service requires physical fitness. He stressed candidates must prepare accordingly. Rio suggested giving unfilled posts a second chance in their districts. He cautioned against indefinite vacancies.
Patton informed the House about educational qualifications. The minimum is Class 8 for forward tribes. It is Class 6 for backward tribes. The department will review the recruitment process. This review will focus on the balance between written and physical tests for the next recruitment.