PDCCI suspends tax payments, calls for ‘One Govt, One Tax’

Phek District Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PDCCI), after consultation with all affiliated towns and unit bodies, has resolved to temporarily suspend payment of tax/financial contributions by its business members pending establishment of a unified and structured taxation framework guided by the principle of “One Government – One Tax.”
In a press note, PDCCI president Razoukhruyi Dozo and general secretary Pio Veswu sated that the decision follows growing economic challenges arising from multiple and overlapping financial demands on the business community.
PDCCI stated that taxation in a structured system must be centralized, transparent and uniform to ensure predictability and lawful functioning of trade. Fragmented financial demands create economic uncertainty, weaken investor confidence and disrupt commercial activity.
The chamber observed that such practices indirectly encourage the multiplication of separate entities seeking contributions, placing undue burden on traders and entrepreneurs and destabilising the district’s economic framework. It maintained that a unified approach is necessary to prevent further fragmentation and promote long-term stability.
PDCCI noted that the business community comprises ordinary Naga citizens operating without additional institutional financial support. If contributions are meant for collective welfare, they must be structured equitably rather than imposed disproportionately on one sector.
It pointed out that nearly 96% of business establishments in Phek district were owned by local Naga entrepreneurs, and repeated overlapping demands directly affect local families and youth and households striving to sustain livelihoods.
Reiterating respect for the historical and political aspirations of the Naga people, PDCCI stated that nationalism cannot justify coercive financial demands, multiple taxation or disruption of lawful trade. It stated that political processes and economic survival must remain distinct to ensure that ordinary citizens were not disproportionately burdened.
PDCCI expressed concern over the impact on small and medium enterprises, rural traders and first-generation entrepreneurs. It stated that many young Nagas were striving to start businesses, generate employment and contribute meaningfully to society, while already bearing statutory permit charges, town council fees and operational expenses. Additional overlapping “special contributions”, it said, impose excessive financial pressure and discourage youth entrepreneurship at a time when unemployment remains a serious concern.
PDCCI resolved that until all concerned parties unite under a single agreed authority and establish a clear and uniform taxation framework, its members will temporarily suspend payment of tax or financial contributions to any group or entity. It described the move as a principled economic position aimed at safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring fairness and not an act of confrontation.
PDCCI reaffirmed its commitment to peace, lawful governance and constructive engagement. It also appealed to all stakeholders to work towards a transparent, unified and acceptable framework that ensures political stability and economic growth. It stated that the welfare of the people, dignity of entrepreneurs and economic future of Phek district must remain a shared responsibility.