Dimapur, May 5 (MExN): Amid criticism over various aspects of its functioning, the elected members (Councillors) of the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) today refuted claims of “illogical” escalation in trade licence fees and addressed concerns related to sanitation charges and market regulation.
In a clarification issued by its Spokesperson, Neingutoulie Kengruse, to put things in “perspective in the interest of transparency and governance,” the DMC said that the trade licence fee was marginally increased for digitalisation of all data and services to be provided to vendors in the form of online apps, revival of the website, and online payment facilities—from trade licence fees only, excluding the sanitation fee (for commercial establishments).
This was in response to the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI)’s charge of “illogical” escalation in trade licence fees, as well as the imposition of a “new variety” of fees despite businesses already possessing valid trade licences.
Further, the DMC said that it introduced a nominal fee for wholesalers for price regulation in the market.
This was done in accordance with the Nagaland Municipal Act (NMA) 2023, Part-IV Chapter 1 Clause 124, the DMC asserted, adding that if any other element or group imposes any fee without authorisation, the Council cannot be held responsible.
As only DMC is legally empowered under the Nagaland Municipal Act to collect specific taxes/fees for permits or commodities within its jurisdiction, any other element or group other than the DMC will be deemed illegal, it reiterated.
On the issue of the sanitation fee, the DMC maintained that it was compelled to marginally raise the fee from Rs 60 to Rs 80 in view of the need to cater to expanded areas of operation and provide efficient services.
Meanwhile, regarding the imposition of leases on items like mineral water, potato, tomato, dry fish, etc., and the accompanying price rise affecting consumers, the DMC asserted that it had not authorised or permitted syndication of those items.
The DMC stands for the welfare of the public who voted for the councillors to form the Council and, thus, it stands opposed to such unauthorised collection or syndication of market items that impact not only local farmers but also Naga entrepreneurs and the public, it affirmed.
On allegations over the sale of items like Christmas stars, dustbins, and fire extinguishers, and the ‘reminder’ to the ULBs to “govern locally and regulate, and not become business enterprises,” the DMC maintained that such activities were conducted in a transparent manner and in accordance with the NMA 2023.
However, it admitted that the entire issue should have been properly monitored.
To this end, while appreciating the advice given to the DMC on running its affairs, the Council reminded that the elected councillors, who have obtained the mandate of the public, seek cooperation from all sections of society in order to make Dimapur a thriving metropolitan city in Nagaland.
Furthermore, for any clarification, the office of the DMC and its councillors can be contacted, it added.
Regarding the “voluntary shutter down” linked to the ultimatum issued by the Districts Chambers of Commerce demanding nominee representation in civic bodies, the elected councillors—having received the public mandate—stated that they leave the matter to the State Government’s discretion and to the judgment of the public.
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