NSCN/GPRN (K) president ‘gen. (Retd) Niki Sumi slammed Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) for putting the entire blame on Naga Political Groups (NPGs), which led to shutter down protest against multiple taxation
Addressing the media at the Ceasefire Supervisory Board office at Padampukhri, Niki described the actions by DCCI as uncalled for. While saying he withheld comment on whether DDCI had anything to voice out against the state government, Niki however questioned the rationale behind DCCI blaming the NPGs on national issue.
He emphasized that any matter concerning the Naga issue was solely between the Government of India and the NPGs and did not involve the state government. Therefore, he cautioned DCCI’s attempt to dictate on national issue and creating “confusion”.
Niki emphasized that the Naga political issue involved the Government of India and NPGs and did not involve the state government. Niki deemed the action by DCCI as a “wrong approach and wrong demand”. Referring to the shutter down called by DCCI, he questioned how “a committee” of DCCI could “unilaterally hold Dimapur to ransom”.
On GST, Niki said it was the prerogative of the Government of India while it was up to the people and the NPGs whether to give/collect tax or not. He accused DCCI leaders of being ignorant and questioned whether DCCI was “above the Nagas and above the Indian country.”
On mention that there are today 24 factions in Nagaland, Niki categorically stated that according to the Government of India, only three entities are recognized: NSCN (I-M) (Framework Agreement), WC/NNPGs (Agreed Position) and NSCN (K). When asked about collection of taxes by other entities including state government departments, Niki singled out the District Administration as the only department considered as “clean” in the state.
Regarding unions collecting taxes, Niki issued a stern warning to leaders of unions who are not directly involved in their respective sectors but who use threats and intimidation to assume leadership positions in business unions they are not a part of.
Niki declared that henceforth, the group will take stern action against such individuals.
Niki also questioned the “lack of courage” of the Nagas in allowing a union to dictate over the whole of Nagaland. He reiterated that tribe hohos were bigger than the trade unions and alleged that such committees of unions were temporary and working for personal benefits.
He alleged that DCCI may be benefiting indirectly by imposing such strikes/shutter down as it has led to diversion of Dimapur market economy to neighboring Assam in connivance with trade bodies there.
Niki also said he will always support genuine Naga business enterprises but cautioned against those businesses run by non-Nagas under the umbrella of local entrepreneurs.
When asked whether Nagas could expect unity among NPGs, Niki attributed the lack of cohesion among NPGs due to differences in various matters including taxation.
He elaborated by citing the issue of tax collection, where out of 100%, only 20% reached the NPGs, while the major chunk allegedly went to various committees.
He went on to mention the understanding between NSCN (K) and the Government of India in 2001, emphasizing the importance of not involving in forcible tax collection or harassment or kidnapping.
On the adherence to ceasefire ground rules, Niki said both sides (NPGs and security agencies) have to be accountable.