The union reiterated its demand for the implementation of the state cabinet’s approval from December 17, 2007, which sanctioned the upgradation of Khelhoshe Polytechnic Atoizu (KPA) in Zunheboto, Nagaland, into a full-fledged engineering degree college.
By Imna Longchar, TFM Nagaland Correspondent
The All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) announced on Monday that all government offices within Zunheboto Town would be shut down from March 11, and the movement of government vehicles halted as part of its ongoing peaceful agitation.
According to a press release issued by the SKK media cell, these intensified measures have become necessary due to the Nagaland state government’s continued failure to respond to the union’s demands, despite multiple peaceful and democratic efforts, including repeated representations and ultimatums.
The union reiterated its demand for the implementation of the state cabinet’s approval from December 17, 2007, which sanctioned the upgradation of Khelhoshe Polytechnic Atoizu (KPA) in Zunheboto, Nagaland, into a full-fledged engineering degree college.
Emphasizing that the agitation is for the welfare, interests, and future of the entire Naga student community, SKK appealed to all right-thinking citizens of Nagaland to support and cooperate with their cause. It also urged the public to bear with any inconvenience caused by the shutdown.
Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has extended its full support to SKK’s demand for KPA’s upgradation. In a joint press release issued by its president, Lanutoshi Aier, and general secretary, Satemmongba, AKM expressed solidarity with SKK, stressing the urgency of the matter.
AKM pointed out that KPA, the first and oldest polytechnic in Nagaland, has been neglected since its inception. Despite the Nagaland cabinet approving its upgradation in 2007, the decision remains unfulfilled, exposing the state government’s lack of political will to address the growing need for technical education.
Furthermore, AKM highlighted that the absence of a government engineering college in Nagaland has forced countless students to pursue technical education outside the state, imposing significant financial and emotional burdens on families. Calling this continued neglect unacceptable, AKM insisted that the government must be held accountable for failing to implement its own decision.
AKM reaffirmed its solidarity with SKK, demanding immediate action from the Nagaland government to fulfill its long-overdue commitment. The student community, it declared, would not remain silent while Nagaland’s youth continue to be denied their right to technical education.
The organization urged the authorities to act without further delay.