ATKK backs SBH’s ‘blanket ban’ on taxes
Indicating an overwhelming public resentment against unabated taxations imposed by over two dozen Naga Political Groups (NPGs) on public, the Asuto Tokukujo Kukami Kuqhakulu (ATKK), a conglomeration of 20 villages under Aghunato subdivision, Zunheboto district, and Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation(DAYO) have in separate press releases come down heavily against such activities.
Ban on taxes: In a press release, ATKK extended support to the Sumi Baghi Hoho (SBH)’s blanket ban on taxes imposed by various Naga political groups (NPGs). According to ATKK president Vikheho Chophy and general secretary Nivishe Zhimo the Sumi Baghi Hoho, had taken a strong stand against “multiple taxation menace” under the guise of freedom movement by various NPG.
In view of this, the SBH on July 20, 2024 adopted a resolution that till such time the NPGs come under “one single unified framework”, various forms of taxation to Naga political groups in Sumi inhabited area shall be stopped effectively January 1, 2025 onwards.
ATKK described the ban as “a crucial step” towards streamlining tax collection by various Naga political groups and ensuring that all Naga political groups operate under a single, unified framework.
The union stated that multiple NPGs imposing taxes was “creating a state of confusion, harassment, and exploitation towards the ordinary citizens”, which was affecting the local economy as well as paving a way for corruption.
It said that with the sole intention to eliminate the problem of multiple taxation issue and to promote a more cohesive and effective taxation system. the Sumi apex local body encouraged all the Naga political groups to unify.
ATKK affirmed to implement the provision of the SBH in toto without any favour to any Naga political groups. Meanwhile, ATKK has informed contractor/proprietors or firms engaging in any development works within its jurisdiction to carry out all works within the framework or detailed project report (DPR) prepared by the government.
Asuto Tokukujo Kukami Kuqhakulu cautioned that it will not tolerate the use of substandard materials in construction activities and would take legal resources if development works were carried out in deviation of detailed project report or specific terms and condition of the contract.
Further ATKK also informed it would follow the progress of developmental activities and therefore, urged the responsible stakeholders to maintain transparency.
ATKK has welcomed all agencies and stakeholders engaged in developmental activities within its jurisdiction to report any challenges faced in executing development works including coercive taxation demand, extortion intimidation from any individual or groups.
Asuto Tokukujo Kukami Kuqhakulu said if any failed to give such information , it would refrain from extending any assistance under any circumstances. Further, ATKK has urged the responsible departments to refrain from issuing any work completion certificate to the contractors/proprietors or any agencies without conducting quality check of the works executed in the presence of ATKK members. ATKK has assured to extend cooperation in the smooth execution of all developmental activities within its jurisdiction.
DAYO flays ‘cowardly act of extortion’
The Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO) has issued a strongly worded condemnation statement against what it termed as “cowardly act of extortion” carried out by cadres of NSCN-K (Khango) against a Lotha Naga entrepreneur in Purana Bazar here on February 4.
Pointing out that such despicable acts not only threatened the safety and livelihood of hardworking individuals but also undermined the spirit of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among the Naga people, DAYO president Tia Longchar and grievance cell convener Imkongsungkum in a press release declared that they stood in full solidarity with the Dimapur Lotha Youth Organisation (DLYO) in denouncing this blatant intimidation.
DAYO said the repeated targeting of local entrepreneurs by armed groups was totally unacceptable, and must be brought to an immediate halt. The youth body mentioned that these groups, under the guise of political struggle, had become a stumbling block to progress, preventing dedicated and rising entrepreneurs from contributing to the economic development of the state.
Dimapur Lotha Youth Organisation urged the Ceasefire Monitoring Cell to take urgent and decisive action to rein in the NSCN-K (Khango) and ensure that such criminal activities did not recur.
They stressed that if the ceasefire mechanism was to hold any credibility, then it must be ensured that armed groups strictly adhered to the Ceasefire Ground Rules and refrain from unlawful activities, especially extortion and harassment of the people.
Asserting that the DAYO would not remain silent in the face of such injustices, the signatories reaffirmed their commitment to stand by all Naga entrepreneurs who strived to uplift the society through hard work and dedication.
They also called upon all right-thinking citizens and civil society organisations to raise their voices against such oppressive tactics that hindered collective growth and aspirations, while demanding justice, accountability, and the protection of the people from such lawless elements.