DCCI flags illegal taxation, ILP issue, welfare committees

Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) has expressed serious concern over a number of pressing issues adversely affecting the business community and the public in Dimapur, and called for immediate intervention from the concerned authorities.
In a press release, DCCI urged the authorities to take immediate steps to curb illegal collection of money at check gates which, it said, have resurfaced despite the state government’s order dated May 19, 2022. DCCI further demanded that all check gates set up by various departments, including those under Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC), be closed in compliance with the government’s order.
It alleged that rampant collections from two-wheelers and four-wheelers transporting goods, coupled with multiple taxation on perishable items such as vegetables, were directly contributing to price escalation. DCCI said that even after goods reached the market, DMC continued to levy additional taxes per crate, basket or box. It said the public needed to be aware that these illegal and multiple collections were a major reason behind price rise.
Parking tax: On issue of parking fees, DCCI pointed out that the existing DMC parking tax structure required urgent reform. It suggested uniform and streamlined system with reduced hourly charges, instead of the current Rs.20-30 rate, which it said would ease the financial burden on citizens and bring much-needed relief to the business community.
ILP issue: The chamber also expressed concern over growing reports of harassment of the business community in the name of Inner Line Permit (ILP) checking.
It said the practice had turned into “another form of taxation,” with instances of traders being summoned to designated camps and headquarters for questioning and taxation. It further alleged that cases of kidnapping of traders in connection with taxation demands had also surfaced recently. While condemning such practices, DCCI requested law enforcing agencies to provide security to the business community, even as it acknowledged police for solving several cases in the past.
Road condition: Highlighting the deplorable condition of Dimapur’s roads due to incessant rains, DCCI said major arteries had become unmotorable, affecting all sections of society. It reminded the government and concerned departments that taxpayers had every right to demand good roads and urged swift action.
Welfare committees: DCCI further expressed concern over reports of forceful formation of welfare committees and unions in certain localities and wards where such bodies already exist. It cautioned that such practices could create an unhealthy atmosphere among members of the business community and disrupt day-to-day trade.
The chamber advised its affiliate units to immediately report such instances to the DCCI Grievances Cell or approach any of its officials.
Reiterating its stand on collection drives, DCCI said it would not entertain any kind of donations or fund-raising activities, including lotteries, calendars, buffet tickets or festive collections.