Shops in New Market, closed since Saturday following the murder of Abdul Kayum Talukdar, the Gaon Bura (GB) of New Market, will reopen on Monday. The decision was announced during separate press conferences by the New Market Business Welfare Committee (NMBWC) and the New Market Business Owners Association (NMBOA) on Sunday.
Addressing the media at Hotel Saramati, Khekishe Aye, GB of New Market Ward-19, along with Mughato Sumi, president of New Market Business Welfare Committee (NMBWC), and committee’s general secretary, stated that the market would resume operations to ease the public’s daily challenges.
Khekishe highlighted the inconvenience caused to the public by the prolonged closure and noted the impact on daily wage earners who rely on the market for their livelihood.
“We understand the critical role New Market plays in the community, not just as a commercial hub, but as a source of sustenance for many. Therefore, we have decided to lift the closure after consulting with the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), the district administration, and Muslim Council,” Khekishe explained.
When asked about the issue between NMBWC and NMBOA, Khekishe emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation. He suggested that both parties need to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve their differences. “To bridge the gap between the welfare committee and the owners’ association, it’s crucial for both sides to come together at the negotiating table. Despite our differences, we must work towards peace and cooperation for the greater good of our community,” Khekishe stated.
Mughato, on behalf of NMBWC, also reiterated the commitment to supporting the community and ensuring that the market operates smoothly. “We are committed to maintaining a peaceful and supportive environment for all stakeholders in New Market. It is essential for us to work together and support each other during these challenging times,” Mughato said.
NMBOA: New Market Business Owners Association (NMBOA) held a press conference at the residence of its advisor, where the association’s president, Kevin Yepthomi, informed the media that the association had initially called for an indefinite closure on June 7. This decision was made to express solidarity with the late Gaon Bura and to demand justice for his murder.
Kevin emphasized that the decision to close the shops was made in consultation with business owners, as a united effort to press for a swift and thorough investigation into the incident.
“The decision to close our shops immediately was made to show our unity and to demand a quick and thorough investigation,” he stated.
Kevin informed that law enforcement agencies have assured that the investigation is actively ongoing and that efforts are being made to bring the culprit to justice as soon as possible. “We have been reassured by the authorities that they are committed to solving this case promptly,” he added.
Reiterating their demand for justice, NMBOA announced its decision to lift the shutter-down with the expectation that such incidents would not occur again in the future.
They warned that if no substantial progress is made in the investigation, they may consider taking further action. “We are lifting the shutdown for now, but if there is no significant progress, we may have to take more stringent measures,” Kevin warned.
Addressing concerns about the misunderstandings and the lack of unity among various parties involved, NMBOA clarified that there has been no successful negotiation to resolve the differences.
The association accused the GB of failing to act as a neutral mediator, suggesting that lack of neutrality has contributed to the division within the market community. “This issue is not just about two parties; it affects all the citizens of New Market. If the GB had remained neutral, there would be trust and no division,” the association stated.
NMBOA emphasized the importance of accountability and vigilance to ensure community safety and prevent future tragedies. They also highlighted their commitment to the welfare of the business community, noting that over a thousand shopkeepers are registered under their association, which demonstrates a unified stance in demanding justice and ensuring community welfare.
“We have been working tirelessly for the welfare of the business community with support from the entire market,” they stated.
When asked whom the community should listen to during such instances of crisis, NMBOA suggested that a survey should be conducted to determine which party has more influence and which is more effective in addressing the community’s needs.