DBC adopts stricter verification, environmental and civic measures

Duncan Bosti Council (DBC) held its 32nd general meeting on Monday at Duncan community hall, where key resolutions were adopted concerning community verification, civic discipline, environmental preservation, and administrative coordination.
Addressing media persons after the meeting, DBC chairman Wochamo Yanthan said the house deliberated extensively on the issue of Scheduled Tribe (ST) and indigenous status verification. He explained that rural councils are responsible for issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to individuals seeking ST or indigenous recognition, which are then endorsed by urban chairmen and forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner’s office. However, Yanthan expressed concern over instances where NOCs were issued to individuals not properly identified by their villages. “If this continues, it won’t be good for both sides,” he cautioned, urging rural councils to ensure thorough verification before issuing NOCs.
The council resolved that starting November, the GB and chairman will not issue residential certificates or signatories to tenants unless the house owner provides an NOC. This decision follows complaints that some individuals continue to use house numbers even after vacating the premises. It was further decided that no certificate or signatory will be issued to anyone who fails to obtain the annual household membership receipt from Duncan Bosti. The colony currently has around 500–600 permanent settlers, with a total population including tenants estimated at 1,200–1,300.
DBC general secretary S. Bendang Imsong reiterated that no residential or permanent resident certificate will be issued without reference from the respective house or landowner. He also urged other colonies to adopt similar measures, citing misuse of certificates by short-term tenants for illegal activities. On environmental concerns, the council appreciated the plantation drive undertaken during World Environment Day and encouraged other colonies to initiate similar efforts. Members also discussed groundwater preservation and urged residents to reduce excessive concrete paving in compounds to improve water absorption.
Regarding prepaid electricity meters, Yanthan informed that after consultations with the department, the council agreed that installation for domestic use will remain voluntary, while commercial and industrial users may proceed. He clarified that grievances should be addressed directly to the concerned department, with which the council maintains a cooperative understanding.
On the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, the council reaffirmed its strict stance against liquor sale within Duncan jurisdiction. Yanthan said DBC fully supports the Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) and other civil society groups in upholding the Act. He added that restaurant owners have been warned that establishments found selling liquor or causing disturbances will face closure and the owners held accountable. “The lifting of the Act is not about revenue or employment but about saving lives and preventing the circulation of illicit liquor,” he stated.
The council also resolved to regulate unauthorized posters and hoardings, noting that such activities have made the area untidy. From next month, posters must be approved by the council and removed within one month. Failure to comply will invite disciplinary action.