DUCCF new team of office bearers taking their oath during its 5th General Conference at Town Hall, Dimapur, on January 24. (Morung Photo)
Renews demand to lift NLTP Act in Dimapur on trial basis
Morung Express News
Dimapur | January 24
The Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) today reaffirmed its commitment to unity, democratic governance and protection of public interest at its 5th General Conference held at Town Hall, Dimapur.
Addressing the gathering, DUCCF President, Zasivikho Zakiesato said the 2023–2025 period had been a defining phase for the federation, during which it functioned as a united platform of urban councils to strengthen grassroots governance and safeguard people’s interests.
He said DUCCF continues to serve as a vital bridge between the people and the district administration, and between traditional institutions and modern governance systems.
Zakiesato, who has been re-elected for the 2026–2028 tenure following a search committee–led selection process with House approval, acknowledged the guidance of the Naga Council Dimapur in DUCCF’s formation and growth. Noting that the federation’s strength lies in collective leadership and shared responsibility, he acknowledged various civil society organisations for their continued support.
Highlighting Dimapur’s rapid urban expansion, he said urban councils now face increased responsibilities related to infrastructure, land, sanitation, security and social harmony.
With the declaration of new office bearers, the president urged the incoming team to uphold integrity, humility and a service-oriented approach, calling for unity and collective leadership for peaceful and sustainable progress of Dimapur.
Gracing the occasion as special guest, Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) Chairman Hukheto Yepthomi commended DUCCF for its sustained dedication and service to the people of Dimapur over the years.
“In the absence of the Dimapur Municipal Council, civil society organisations like DUCCF have shouldered many of the responsibilities of the city,” Yepthomi said, while appealing to the federation and other organisations to extend cooperation and support to DMC.
He voiced concern over the weakening community life in urban settings like Dimapur. For a society like the Nagas, where community identity is deeply rooted in clan, village, region and tribe, Yepthomi said it can at times contribute to divisive tribalism.
In this context, he called for building an inclusive society noting, “Dimapur is the perfect place to redefine community and look beyond tribe and village.”
Citing studies by the World Health Organisation, Yepthomi linked rising urban loneliness to higher rates of depression and shorter life expectancy. He pointed out the need to blend urban realities with social needs by creating public parks and shared spaces, organising community events, and encouraging initiatives that bring people together rather than focusing solely on business and profit.
“I believe that through practical means, we can bring people together,” he said, adding that despite challenges, representatives of the people have a responsibility to shoulder them collectively. He urged stakeholders to work towards making Dimapur a model city and reiterated that DMC remains open to collaboration and suggestions.
Meanwhile, Guest of Honour and Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) President GK Rengma renewed the demand for lifting the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act in Dimapur district on a trial basis. He cited rampant illegal liquor trade, drug abuse and the failure of prohibition to curb consumption even after 37 years.
Addressing the conference, Rengma said the ground reality in Dimapur showed that the existing system was “rotten,” with spurious liquor openly sold and increasing cases of liver-related illnesses reported in hospitals. He said the NCD and other apex civil society organisations had earlier submitted representations to the Governor, Chief Secretary and Chief Minister, and would submit another formal representation this month seeking selective relaxation of the Act for Dimapur district alone.
Rengma clarified that the demand was neither against the Church nor in blind support of the government, but based on grassroots assessments by DUCCF and chairmen of Dimapur’s 97 recognised colonies.
“If Dimapur changes, Nagaland changes,” he said, describing Dimapur as the gateway and trendsetter for the state.
Highlighting Dimapur’s unique role, Rengma said the NCD, founded in 1949 with the motto “All in One,” remains the only apex body in the city representing all Naga tribes, including Southern Nagas.
He also appealed to the DMC and DUCCF to consider recognising four additional colonies seeking recognition, which would take the total number of recognised colonies to 101.
During the event, short addresses were also delivered by Thejao Sekhose, President of the Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Council (AKMWC) and Nagaland Urban Council Federation, and Limasashi Ao, President of the All Ward Union Mokokchung Town (AWUMT).
The conference also marked the release of DUCCF’s annual magazine documenting the federation’s journey, challenges and aspirations.
