Dimapur, 22 April (MTNews): The Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has taken a decisive stance amidst mounting grievances, announcing an indefinite shutter down of all shops and business establishments in Dimapur, effective Friday, 26 April. This bold move comes as a response to the incessant issues of multiple taxation, intimidation, and summons faced by the business community.
According to the DCCI, this shutter down will persist until the grievances of the business community are adequately addressed. The chamber has repeatedly appealed to the State Government and law enforcement agencies to intervene, emphasizing the urgency of protecting businesses from further escalation. “The government and its agencies can no longer afford to ignore what the business community is going through,” the DCCI said.
Expressing concern over the escalating situation, the DCCI cautioned the business community against responding to any calls or summons from various Naga Political Groups (NPGs) without consulting the chamber. While asserting that the business community stands united against multiple taxation and extortion, the DCCI also advised shopkeepers and traders to prioritize their safety by refraining from harboring any items belonging to customers or strangers.
Furthermore, the DCCI called upon civil society organizations and the public to endure the inconveniences caused by the proposed indefinite shutter down and to extend support for the collective welfare of all citizens.
In a strongly worded press release, the DCCI also condemned the nefarious tactics employed by certain NPGs to extort from businesses. It highlighted instances where NPGs allegedly planted illegal substances in shops to tarnish their reputations, followed by hefty fines and penalties. Additionally, the chamber decried the physical assault and extortion faced by a businessman last week, which resulted in hospitalization.
The DCCI underscored the deteriorating business environment in Dimapur, lamenting the exodus of businesses to neighboring towns in Assam due to friendlier economic conditions there. With businesses facing daily harassment and threats, the chamber raised the pertinent question: How long will the business community tolerate such summons and threats?