Kohima: The All Sümi Students’ Union (SKK) is demanding that the Nagaland Staff Selection Board (NSSB) reschedule the Combined Staff Recruitment Examination (CSRE) set for November 14. The date clashes with Ahuna, a major traditional festival for the Sümi community. Conflict looms.
In an October 9 representation to the NSSB Chairman, SKK President Hipito Achumi, General Secretary P Samuel Chophy, and Education & Statistics Secretary Ito K Yepthomi argued that the festival represents more than just a social gathering. They believe it is an essential piece of their cultural identity and collective life. Scheduling the test now creates an unfair choice for aspirants: skip their career-defining exam or abandon their heritage.
The union asserts that a state-level body should respect the diverse traditions found across Nagaland. They warned that the current timing raises serious questions about the board's inclusivity and commitment to equal opportunity. The union stated, "Ahuna is an integral part of the cultural identity, traditions, and collective life of the community rather than just a social gathering."
The SKK insists the board must immediately pick a new date. They also urged the NSSB to better coordinate future schedules to avoid these cultural collisions.
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