DIMAPUR, JUN 19 (NPN): All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) and its affiliated colleges across the state on Friday observed a statewide “Black Friday” protest, marking the first phase of its agitation against the state government over the delay in constructing a 100-bedded girls’ hostel at Kohima Science College (Autonomous), Jotsoma.
In a press note, ANCSU president Kivika Yeptho and asst general secretary Imnawabang T. Longkumer said the protest was necessitated following the expiry of its ultimatum served on the responsible authorities.
The union said that despite repeated representations, appeals and sufficient time given to the government to address the issue, no satisfactory response or visible progress had been made. ANCSU described the continued delay in implementing the project as disappointing, particularly as it directly affected the welfare, safety and academic aspirations of female students.
ANCSU reiterated that its demand for the immediate construction and completion of the hostel was non-negotiable and a matter of urgent priority. It also maintained that the government’s prolonged inaction had compelled the students to resort to democratic forms of protest.
Warning of intensified agitation, ANCSU urged the state government and the responsible department to take immediate and concrete steps to resolve the issue. The union also appealed to its affiliated units to remain prepared for the next phase of the movement, saying a massive statewide protest rally would be launched in the coming days if the matter remained unresolved.
Meanwhile, ANCSU has expressed appreciation to its affiliated and associate units for their solidarity and active participation in making the “Black Friday” protest successful.
According to ANCSU, the strong response from students across the state reflected growing frustration and concern over what it described as the government’s failure to fulfil its responsibilities towards the student community.
