Sentimongla
Nagaland has always been portrayed as a state ravaged by its vexed political problem and the ugly head of corruption which has time and again protruded out and made its presence known everywhere. At every point in time for the right thinking citizens it has been a ceaseless struggle to paint this distorted picture otherwise and as everywhere else their concerted efforts has always been met with indifference and callousness and many a times resisted by individuals and groups with shallow thoughts and self interest.
Looking at the current trend in which the state of affairs is heading one cannot help but question that somewhere down the line something is terribly wrong and today Nagaland stands at a crossroad between the devil and the cliff. 2005 has seen many unfortunate or rather shameful incidents in the Naga calendar year. The most recent being the alleged tryst of NPSC and the bribery scam, which has made infamous headlines nationwide. This incident has shaken the pillars of the Naga society to its very core.
Over the decades, this institution has been held in the highest esteem for the constructive part played by it in the progress of the State. It has almost been revered and referred to as the pinnacle of success for thousands of youngsters in Nagaland. It has been the very epitome of the civil society and is synonymous to the modern and progressive culture that we all live in today.
It has rendered great service to the people, but time and again there have also been talks about the prevalence of corruption within its folds. It is no secret that many youngsters have been disappointed and disillusioned by such tales making the rounds. There were of course denials and hand washing from every quarter in this high power drama.
A contract LDA of NPSC office approaches the Controller of examination of NPSC with Rs 10 lakh in his hands to buy the selection of two “aspiring” candidates for the preliminary examination 2005.
The Controller however rejects this proposal and reports it to the bigwigs of the Commission office who promptly terminates the LDAs service and bars the other from appearing in the examination. This comes to light only on May, whereas according to fact findings it took place in the month of February. The whole matter was hushed up because it involved some very powerful people in this highly charged drama. The feeble excuse that was later given by the Commission was that it was done so to preserve the sanctity of the office.
When this episode came to light there was uproar all over Nagaland and many at last found the voice to express personal grievances against the office.
For most part, the state government remained a mute spectator, and when the matter became too hot to handle, the case was handed over to the Nagaland vigilance department. For many, the investigation made by the vigilance department is a no show, and demands only a C.B.I probe.
Time only will tell who or what is the rotten apple in the whole basket. But for now every anger is directed towards the NPSC and unless the truth unfolds (if it does) the question of the sanctity and sanity of the Naga society is at stake, not forgetting the serious repercussions that it will have on the mindset of the Naga youngsters in the future.
