80 constable posts vacant due to failed physical test

Vacancies in the recent police constable recruitment drive were raised on the third day of the eighth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly, with concerns over posts left unfilled after candidates failed the Physical Efficiency Test (PET).
Responding to a starred question by NPF legislator Tongpang Ozukum, chief minister Neiphiu Rio informed the House that out of 1,176 posts advertised, 80 remained vacant as aspirants in some districts could not clear the PET. He emphasized that physical fitness is fundamental to police service and urged candidates to prepare adequately to meet both physical and medical standards.
Rio suggested that, in fairness, unsuccessful candidates could be given one more opportunity to qualify. However, he cautioned against keeping such options open indefinitely, warning that delays could complicate recruitment processes.
The chief minister also highlighted issues related to educational qualifications. He noted that while promotions in the police department are based on efficiency and qualifications, Grade IV posts—often filled on compassionate grounds—sometimes attract highly overqualified applicants. Rio observed that some graduates and postgraduates lack commitment, occasionally hiring proxies while seeking better jobs. This, he said, deprives less educated but genuinely deserving candidates, and therefore requires review.
Deputy chief minister, in-charge of Home, Y Patton confirmed in the Assembly that 80 police constable posts remain vacant but ruled out a separate recruitment solely for them. Instead, he said a district-wise drive will be held to fill backlog posts, ensuring vacancies stay within their respective districts and tribes.
Responding to NCP MLA A. Pongshi Phom’s query on Longleng, which had 36 posts, Patton explained that one reserved post remained unfilled as no candidate from the designated village cleared the physical test. He assured the vacancy will remain with Longleng and be added to its quota in the next drive.
Patton further noted that the minimum qualification is Class 6 or 8, with selection based on both physical and written tests. He acknowledged concerns that strong physical performers sometimes fail due to poor written scores, and said the process will be reviewed.
During the Assembly session, NPF legislator Kuzholuzo Nienu questioned the fairness of requiring candidates with Class 6 or 8 education to compete in the same written examination as graduates and postgraduates. He urged the Home Department to study the issue and consider separate categories in future recruitments, warning that the current system favors urban candidates while disadvantaging those from backward areas.
Adding to the debate, NPF legislator Achumbemo Kikion noted that while the Constitution allows all citizens to apply, constabulary roles are primarily physical. He suggested increasing weightage for physical tests and reducing emphasis on written marks, cautioning that separate papers could create disparity and legal challenges.