Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DDCI) has expressed full support for the indefinite ban on entry of poultry consignments declared by Poultry Union Dimapur.
In a press note, DCCI vice president V Shikuto Sema reiterated that DCCI has always been at the forefront against any form of monopoly or unfair trade practices, especially in the commercial hub Dimapur. DCCI said the recent disclosure by PUD regarding poultry syndicate system operating in neighbouring Assam state, was alarming as it has affected import of live chickens into Nagaland.
DCCI noted: “What is more shocking is that the syndicate system is being authorised by Karbi Anglong district administration in the form of the Taxes department of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council setting up a check gate at Khatkhati, to intercept vehicles transporting chickens to Nagaland on the pretext of license checking.”
DCCI said the ban has not only affected every household in Nagaland but also restaurants, eateries and hotels.
It also wondered as to why the state government and the Dimapur district administration have not come up with any concrete action and update the public on the issue. DCCI reiterated that no syndicate system should exist, whether in poultry or any other businesses, in Dimapur and the whole of Nagaland. It stated that the syndicate system has for long stifled healthy competition in business, especially at the cost of local entrepreneurs and small-time businessmen.
Extending full support to PUD in their fight against the syndicate system, DCCI said the system would not only deprive local poultry traders and farmers of their profit margin but also their livelihood. It also said that DCCI members along with CNCCI members visited the inter-state check gate on August 11, to extend solidarity with the union.