DUCCF backs DCCI, seeks crackdown on illegal unions

Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has extended “unequivocal support” to the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), which recently raised concerns over extortion, intimidation, illegal taxation, and the unchecked mushrooming of unions in Dimapur.
DUCCF through its media cell described Dimapur as the commercial backbone of Nagaland, but the markets were suffering due to uncontrolled proliferation of overlapping unions and unauthorized associations, which has drastically degraded the business environment. The federation alleged that certain elements, instead of protecting traders, have turned the marketplace into a platform for pressure tactics and personal gain.
DUCCF has appealed to the Dimapur District Planning & Development Board (DDPDB)—headed by all concerned heads of departments—to take a bold and historic decision in the public interest. It urged DPDB not to recommend registration of any union or welfare association pertaining to the business community without a mandatory No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the concerned colony council and DCCI. DUCCF suggested compulsory ground-level verification before granting recognition. The federation stated that unions operating without the consent and coordination of DCCI and DUCCF should have their licences reviewed, and where found operating for personal benefit, licences should be cancelled.
The federation also stated that too many unions with overlapping jurisdictions have created confusion, hostility, and unnecessary financial burdens on traders.
DUCCF asserted that Dimapur did not belong to a few individuals who misused authority, adding it belonged to every law-abiding citizen. Therefore, it urged DDPDB to act decisively to restore order, discipline, and confidence in market system.
On the recent closure of multiple unauthorized check gates across Dimapur district, DUCCF appreciated the district administration’s action. It, however, stressed that dismantling the structures alone was insufficient.
DUCCF raised the more critical question as to who were the individuals, groups, and organisations operating those illegal gates and collecting money from the public for years?
Describing such activities as organised extortion, DUCCF demanded immediate identification and public disclosure of all persons, groups, and organisations involved; swift arrest and prosecution under relevant provisions of law and departmental inquiry if any government officials or police personnel were found complicit or negligent.
The federation questioned the police department as to whether those “illegal self-styled tax collectors” be allowed to go scot-free, or will they be arrested like any other offender under the law?
If the rule of law applies to common citizens, DUCCF said it must equally apply to those who illegally collect money in the name of authority or influence. It warned that selective enforcement would only weaken public faith in governance.
Reaffirming its stand for justice, transparency, and accountability, DUCCF declared that it would not tolerate any system exploiting the people through illegal collections.
“The government must act decisively to send a clear message that such unlawful activities will not be tolerated in Dimapur,” DUCCF said, adding Dimapur needs change not goons to run the city.