The Dimapur District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) has decided to recommend stricter conditions for the registration and renewal of unions, societies and welfare organisations amid concerns over the growing number of such bodies and complaints about activities affecting businesses and the public.
The issue was discussed during the monthly DPDB meeting held at the DC’s Conference Hall, Dimapur, on Wednesday.
Officials informed the meeting that the district administration had received representations regarding the registration of various unions and societies and their activities after registration.
While many organisations fulfil the existing requirements under the Society Registration Act, officials said some were reportedly engaging in activities beyond their stated objectives, with consequences for businesses and the general public.
The meeting was also informed that several applications for registration were pending verification. Before forwarding applications, officials conduct field verification to ascertain whether the organisations are functioning properly and have genuine offices and activities.
Members raised concerns over the growing number of unions and associations in different localities and the collection of various fees or charges from businesses.
The DPDB stressed the need for clearer guidelines and stricter scrutiny to prevent misuse of registration provisions and protect businesses from unwarranted demands.
At the same time, members said genuine organisations should not be denied registration because of the activities of others.
The Board also discussed periodic renewal and verification of registered societies and suggested that the Home Department issue clear guidelines and a uniform checklist for district administrations to follow while processing registration and renewal applications.
The DPDB decided to recommend the matter to the Home Department, seeking clear directives and stricter conditions for the registration and renewal of societies and associations.
It was also suggested that organisations seeking registration in areas connected with specific government departments should obtain an NOC from the concerned department wherever necessary, which members said could help prevent duplication and ensure coordination with the relevant departments.
