Nagaland: CNCCI Observes State-wide Strike Against Illegal Taxation

The confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CNCCI) has observed a state-wide shutdown of all shops and business establishments on Thursday against multiple illegal taxation by several militant groups and government agencies.

Dr Khekugha Muru, chairman of CNCCI, and Dr Seyievilie, general secretary of CNCCI, said they extended their support to the strike called by Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).

The CNCCI had recently submitted a memorandum to the Chief Secretary of Nagaland, demanding that the issue of multiple taxation by Naga Political Groups (NPGs) be immediately resolved. It also demanded removal of all forms of tax/fees collected by civic bodies on items that come under GST and reserve nominee representation to municipal, town and ad-hoc town council from business and trade bodies.

The Nagaland government has appealed CNCCI to reconsider its strike call.

It was decided during a meeting held by the Nagaland Chief Minister that the government would develop a comprehensive strategy for dealing with complaints regarding illegal taxation and extortion.

It was decided that the collection of any kind of tax/fees on items/goods that comes under the GST regime would be immediately stopped by all the municipals and town councils across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, in consultation with the Police Head Quarters (PHQ) will immediately put in place a security grid, including stationing sufficient security personnel at various locations to check extortion, reported India Today.

Not only the business bodies, but civil society groups in the state have also strongly protested against illegal taxation and extortion.

Recently, United Sangtam Likhum Pumji of Kiphire district adopted a resolution that if any militant group was found being involved in illegal tax collection, then action would be taken.

"In view of the random taxation/entry tax being collected by various groups/factions from commercial trucks/vehicles plying between Dimapur-Kiphire, the house unanimously resolved not to entertain any type of entry tax with immediate effect," said in the resolution adopted by USLP during the joint consultative meeting held on September 8.

The United Sangtam Likhum Pumji, Kiphire had also sent its resolution copy to NSCN (IM), 7 NNPGs.

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