Mokokchung, 24 April (MTNews): The Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) have confirmed that it will go ahead with its proposed indefinite shutdown of all shops and business establishments in Dimapur, effective from April 26.
The decision was made following a three-hour closed-door meeting chaired by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Dimapur on April 24. The meeting was attended by representatives from DCCI, Commissioner of Police Dimapur, Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC), administrative officers, and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from the district.
After the meeting, the DCCI officials announced two main outcomes. Firstly, with the support of other CSOs, DCCI will proceed with its planned shutdown until a favorable response is received from the State government.
Secondly, a report highlighting the grievances of Dimapur’s business community will be submitted to the State government.
Earlier, DCCI had identified issues such as multiple taxation, intimidation, harassment, and summonses by Naga Political Groups (NPGs) as reasons for initiating the shutdown. While clarifying that they do not hold animosity towards any specific group, the Chamber strongly opposed multiple taxation and extortion.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, DCCI’s Vice President, Shitkuto Sema, reaffirmed their decision for an indefinite shutdown. He mentioned the strong support from CSOs, including the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CNCCI) and Business Association of Nagas (BAN).
DCCI clarified that the shutdown applies only to the business community. “There will be free movement of vehicles, and other establishments will remain open. We request the citizens of Dimapur to kindly cooperate with us,” the statement read.
An update from DCCI received here also confirmed their decision to proceed with the indefinite shutdown, backed by various civil society organizations.
Meanwhile, CNCCI Chairman, Dr Khekugha Muru, expressed his view that the government has been passive on this matter for several years. “It’s time for the government to act,” he said. Dr Muru also highlighted that illegal taxation is a statewide issue in Nagaland and reiterated his support for DCCI’s call for a shutdown.
Meanwhile, the CNCCI has informed its confederating district units that the CNCCI might step up the agitation across the state if the government does not respond to the demand raised by the DCCI.
“The office of the CNCCI feels that statewide shutter down may be imposed by 29 April 2024 if there is no positive response,” it said in its message to the district units.
It also informed the district units to be “prepared for the eventuality.”
DC Dimapur Tinojongshi Chang is reported to have said that a report detailing the grievances shared by the business community of Dimapur during Wednesday’s meeting will be sent to the State government. He also reportedly said that a State Cabinet meeting will be held on April 26 to examine over this matter.
Solidarity Shutdown: Kohima and Chümoukedima Chambers Join DCCI
The Kohima and Chümoukedima chambers of commerce and industry have announced a one-day closure in solidarity with the DCCI. Various organizations have also expressed their support for the DCCI’s decision.
The Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has decided to call for a one-day shutdown on 26th April from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm to show its solidarity with the DCCI. The KCCI expressed its appreciation to the DCCI for “taking a bold and firm stand to address the grievances of the business community.”
The challenges and problems highlighted by the DCCI are common issues faced by the business and trading community at large, and they concern everyone, the KCCI noted. The KCCI urged its members, civil society, and the public to support and cooperate in this initiative.
However, the KCCI clarified that pharmacies, hotels, and bakeries will be exempted from the closure to ensure the availability of medical necessities and to accommodate travelers in the district.
Meanwhile, the Chümoukedima Chamber of Commerce & Trade Association (CCCTA) has issued directions for the closure of all shops within Chümoukedima Town jurisdiction on Friday to show solidarity and support for DCCI’s stand against “unjust and rampant exploitation of the business community.”
The CCCTA also appealed to civil society organizations and the general public of Chümoukedima Town to bear with the inconveniences and sought their support and cooperation in the fight for justice for the business community.
The Angami Youth Organisation (AYO) stated that it would not only extend its solidarity but also render full cooperation to the DCCI’s indefinite shutdown as well as the one-day closure by the CCCTA and KCCI.
The Nagaland Medicine Dealers Association (NDMA) has directed all medical shops in and around Dimapur & Chümoukedima to remain closed on April 26 in support of the indefinite shutdown called by the DCCI. However, medical shops were asked to remain open from April 27 onwards.