GPS Hoshepu-A was initially sanctioned under SSA in 2011-2012 and directed to be completed by 2013. After the DC’s latest order directing execution of work by March 1, 2021, construction of the school is yet to begin. (Photo Courtesy: ESSU)
ESSU serves ultimatum to Edu dept to complete construction by Oct 23
Zunheboto, August 11 (MExN): The Eastern Sumi Students’ Union (ESSU) on Wednesday expressed its disappointment over the issue of non-construction of Government Primary School (GPS) Hoshepu-A school building under the establishment of SDEO Aghunato.
In its letter to the Principal Director of the Department of School Education, the ESSU stated that considering the gravity of the issue, the Union was anticipating a prompt recognition and pragmatic conclusion, after it was brought to the notice of the department.
However, it expressed dismay at the department’s silence despite “explicitly exposing the enormity of corruption and injustice” and the Union’s repeated demands for taking appropriate action against the offenders and initiation of the construction of the sanctioned school building.
Recounting matters related to the incident, it drew the Principal Director’s attention to the issue, stating that the order for construction of GPS Hoshepu-A was sanctioned under SSA way back in 2011-2012 amounting to Rs 14,68,665.58 as unit cost, directed to be completed by 2013 as ascertained through an RTI filed by the Union.
Hence, the matter was highlighted to the visiting team of SMA, Samgra Shiksha Nagaland headed by the Joint Mission Director, Samagra Shiksha at Shevishe village Aghunato on August 19, 2020, it stated.
Further, a representation was written to the State Mission Director, Samagra Shiksha Nagaland on November 30, 2020 stating the request for initiating the construction of GPS Hoshepu-A.
Another letter, addressed to the State Mission Director, Samagra Shiksha, soliciting solution to the matter was written by the Union on February 1, 2021.
In response, a meeting was called for by the District Education Officer cum District Project Coordinator, Samagra Shiksha Zunheboto with the Union on February 9, 2021 at DEO Office Zunheboto.
After thorough deliberation, the meeting resolved that the school building construction would begin on or before February 22 and complete by March 31, 2021.
In this connection, the DC and Chairman, DMAZ, Zunheboto issued an order nominating Construction Committee Members which directed to execute work by March 1, 2021 and complete it within 3 months.
“It is mid-August now, but the work has not started yet,” the Union noted.
“…the dishonor to the agreement is a treacherous act unbecoming of maturity and authority. This is an implicit threat to the welfare of the students’ community and a gross misuse of public office,” the ESSU asserted.
As such, the Union said that it is constrained to issue an ultimatum demanding for construction of the GPS Hoshepu-A to begin on or before August 23, 2021 and completed by October 23, 2021 as per the specification of the work order.
It also demanded appropriate legal action to be initiated against erring officials on or before August 23, 2021.
Conveying its expectation for prompt action from the Principal Director, the ESSU cautioned that in case of inaction, it would not remain silent, but objectively pursue its own course of action.
