In a bid to curb unauthorized fund collections across the state, the Home Department, Political Branch of Nagaland, has issued stringent directives to enforce the ban on such activities by various organizations including Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), unions, and associations or any other private and community organizations by whatever name.
The directive, emanating from the State Government, reiterates the prohibition on the unauthorized collection of money in any form, including taxes, membership fees, subscriptions, contributions, donations, charges, levies, tolls, or any other form of collection, especially on state highways, national highways, and marketplaces.
This move comes as a reinforcement of a previous order issued by the Home Department, dated 31 May 2012, and a Notification dated 19 May 2022. These directives specifically outlaw illegal collections by unions, NGOs, and other organizations, and also ban the erection and operation of intra-state check gates as well as unauthorized collections at interstate check gates by any group or individual.
Authorities have emphasized that any individual or group found engaging in such illegal activities will be subject to prosecution under Sections 188 and 384 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code deals with disobeying orders from public servants, carrying penalties of up to one month in jail or a fine, or both, for causing obstruction, annoyance, or risk to others. If disobedience poses a danger to life, health, or safety, or leads to a riot, the punishment can extend to six months in jail or a higher fine, or both.
Section 384 of the Indian Penal Code concerns extortion, punishable by imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.
In a statement issued by Vikeyie Kenya, IAS, Home Commissioner of Nagaland, strict compliance with these instructions has been urged. District administrations and police authorities have been instructed to ensure the rigorous enforcement of these orders throughout the state.
