DIMAPUR, AUGUST 4 (MExN): The Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) Nagaland today stated that the seizure of an illegal solvent consignment by Kohima Police belonging to an out-on-bail adulteration “kingpin,” is a “very serious matter which has only reinforced the public opinion that the criminal-justice system in the state is in need of a serious overhaul.”
A press note from the ACAUT media cell said that the fuel adulteration racket is “being operated by highly connected people.” “This suspicion was renewed when the kingpins got anticipatory bail regardless of the very serious nature of the issue,” it added.
It alleged that the said “kingpin” has “taken advantage of his anticipatory bail and restarted his criminal operations with impunity…” This, the ACAUT said shows his “scant regard for the laws of the land, should the public finally conclude that the judiciary has long closed its eyes and ears to matters of justice?”
‘Core ACAUT member put under duress’
Meanwhile, the ACAUT expressed concern that one of its core members, who was the complainant in the July 11 FIR filed at Zunheboto Police Station against the office of the CMO for deduction of staff salary under 24% NPG ‘salary tax,’ “has been put under duress by a particular faction to withdraw the FIR.”
It informed that the CMO had obtained anticipatory bail “while 4 of his colleagues are awaiting the same bail.” The ACAUT issued a “public declaration” stating that “if anything happens to the complainant,” the 5 employees of the CMO establishment “shall be solely responsible.” It further stated that “as per standing ACAUT Resolution, there is a blanket ban on ACAUT members going to the designated camps of the factions nor are summons acceptable.”
It asked the Nagaland State Government to ensure that nothing untoward happens to “responsible citizens who are always on the forefront fighting for the common good.”
