Says over 35 groups imposing multiple tax demands in Kohima
Correspondent
KOHIMA, MAY 25 (NPN): Newly-formed Kohima Traders Association (KTA), an apex body of 15 traders’ unions in Kohima, Monday declared that it would not tolerate illegal taxation and strongly advocated the principle of “One Government, One Tax”, while expressing concern over the growing burden faced by the business community.
Addressing a press conference at Crescent Kohima, KTA president Ruokuohetuo Mechiilho said the association was formed primarily to address the issue of illegal taxation, which traders across Kohima have been facing for years.
He alleged that more than 35 groups were currently demanding taxes from traders. Earlier, he said traders only had to pay annual taxes, but now various forms of taxes were being imposed monthly on different items, making it increasingly difficult for businesses to survive.
Maintaining that a large portion of traders’ earnings were being spent on taxes despite their hard work, Mechiilho asserted that KTA firmly stood by the principle of “One Government, One Tax” and would not entertain illegal taxation. The association, which was formed on March 10, 2026, also announced its commitment towards trader welfare, ethical trade practices and legal compliance. KTA said it would work to safeguard the interests of all traders registered under various unions in Kohima while promoting fairness in the marketplace and lawful commerce.
Expressing concern over challenges posed by unregulated online commerce and monopolistic or syndicate practices, KTA said it would oppose any form of monopoly, price-fixing or syndicate activity that restricted free and fair competition.
The association further stated that it would enforce strict ethical business practices through a code of conduct prohibiting coercive collections and unlawful trade practices.
KTA also categorically opposed forced or unauthorised collections, including sale or imposition of lottery tickets, ID cards, calendars and similar materials.
On grievance redressal, KTA informed that complaints against traders would first be handled by the respective registered union concerned, failing which the matter would be taken up by the apex body for further action..KTA general secretary Keneikhrielie Mepfhuo clarified that the association was neither against the government nor the Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), but was formed to safeguard the interests of traders.
He said traders were already paying taxes to both the government and KCCI and therefore deserved protection and support from the authorities.
The association also clarified that KTA and KCCI were separate bodies, stating that KCCI did not specifically deal with taxation-related issues.
The 15 unions currently registered under KTA include Super Market, Naga Hospital, TCP Gate, Lower Para Medical, Traders Road Business Association Kohima, Pezieliecie, High School, PR Hill, Razhü Point, Officers Hill, Upper Para Medical, Y Junction, Highway Traders, Kezieke and Chandmari Traders Union.