Morung Express News
Tuensang| June 28
A two-day inspection carried out by the Chang Wedoshi Setshang (Chang Students’ Conference) has revealed rampant absenteeism and irregularities across various government departments and offices in Tuensang district.
In a statement issued following the inspection conducted on June 24 and 25, the student body reported that several Grade II and Grade IV employees were found to be absent from their respective duties for extended periods without valid justification. Attempts by some employees to explain their prolonged absence were deemed baseless and unacceptable by the Setshang.
The absence of Heads of Departments (HoDs) in several offices was noted as a key contributor to the breakdown of administrative discipline. According to the Setshang, employees were found proceeding on leave without proper authorization, with instances of forged signatures in attendance registers. In some departments, staff from Accounts sections had to travel to Kohima and Dimapur to obtain necessary approvals for bill processing due to the prolonged unavailability of their HoDs.
Of particular concern, the Setshang highlighted cases where employees were reportedly drawing salaries despite not attending office or fulfilling any official responsibilities. The body termed such practices a gross negligence of duty and a misuse of public funds, constituting a serious breach of ethical conduct expected from public servants.
As part of its findings, the Setshang has directed several employees across departments—including those from the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), Public Works Department (Roads & Bridges), District Education Office, District Public Relations Office, Department of Economics and Statistics, Electrical Sub-Division, Industries, Horticulture, Agriculture, Chief Medical Officer’s office, District Soil Conservation Office, and the Nagaland State Transport—to report to their respective places of posting within seven days of the notice's issuance.
The Chang Wedoshi Setshang stated it takes an “uncompromising stance” against such dereliction of duty and emphasized that accountability, discipline, and regular attendance are fundamental responsibilities of all government employees.
Failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe, it warned, will invite disciplinary action in accordance with Resolution No. 27 of the Conference.
Additionally, the Setshang directed all departments and government institutions in Tuensang district to maintain monthly attendance registers, duly verified and signed by their respective HoDs. It also called for strict adherence to office timings and maintenance of workplace discipline.
The student body further encouraged the general public to report any grievances or irregularities directly to the Office of the Chang Wedoshi Setshang.
