Kohima, June 19: The All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) on Friday launched a state-wide ‘Black Friday’ protest, accusing the Nagaland government of failing to begin construction of a long-pending 100-bedded girls’ hostel at Kohima Science College (Autonomous), Jotsoma.

The protest, observed across affiliated colleges in the state, marks the first phase of ANCSU’s democratic agitation following the expiry of an ultimatum served to the authorities over the delayed project.

In a statement issued from Naga Solidarity Park in Kohima, the union alleged that despite repeated representations, appeals and sufficient time granted to the government, there has been neither a satisfactory response nor visible progress on the hostel construction.

Describing the delay as “deeply disappointing and unacceptable,” ANCSU said the absence of adequate hostel facilities continues to affect the welfare, safety and academic pursuits of hundreds of female students.

“The demand for the immediate construction and completion of the 100-bedded girls’ hostel remains non-negotiable,” the student body asserted, emphasizing that the project is a matter of urgent educational infrastructure and student welfare.

The union warned the state government and the concerned department to take immediate and concrete steps to address the issue, failing which it would intensify its agitation.

ANCSU also directed its affiliated units to remain prepared for the next phase of the movement and announced plans for a massive state-wide protest rally in the coming days if the demand remains unmet.

The student body further stated that responsibility for any escalation of the agitation would rest solely with the concerned authorities.

The statement was jointly issued by ANCSU President Kivika Yeptho and Assistant General Secretary Imnawabang T. Longkumer.