Dimapur, July 3 (MExN): The Dimapur Urban Council Chairman Federation (DUCCF) has condemned the recent vandalism and alleged illegal monetary demand by a functionary of the Naga Students Federation (NSF) at a local nightclub, and has demanded immediate cancellation of licences of all bars and nightclubs operating “openly and illegally” across the town.
The DUCCF in a statement said that the incident, in which the NSF’s finance secretary allegedly targeted Prysm nightclub owned by the president of Dimapur District Auto Drivers Union (DDADU) and Dimapur Restaurant Union (DRU), was a “serious” act of lawlessness that would not be tolerated.
“Such acts of vandalism, intimidation and lawlessness will not be tolerated by the DUCCF whoever or whatever the person may be,” the federation said, while questioning the district administration over the proliferation of liquor-serving outlets.
“The DUCCF questions the district administration how such outlets are allowed to sell alcohol openly and illegally and with what permit or licenses such outlets are all running around the Dimapur town which is an open defiance and a complete mockery to our law enforcement agencies,” the statement read.
The federation demanded an immediate cancellation of licences of such bars and nightclubs, which it said had become “a nightmare for many peaceful residents and parents” by disturbing the tranquil environment of localities. It also sought clarity from the issuing authority on the category of businesses under which such permits were granted.
The DUCCF called upon churches and tribal bodies to identify house owners who accommodate “these sleazy places” and reprimand their own members. “Unless we Nagas all start owning responsibility and demand accountability from every quarter, the lives of our children are at peril and we are only making an empty bark,” it cautioned.
The federation also took exception to proprietors who hold “responsible posts and chairs in public offices” for running what it termed “shameful and disgraceful establishments” that endanger the youth. It urged the Church to act “without any fear or partiality”.
While appreciating the action taken by the All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) in distancing itself from the accused former leader, the DUCCF asserted that the law must take its “swift and impartial” course.
“The federation stands firmly against any element whether individuals, unions, associations, organizations or student bodies resorting to intimidation or demanding money from local businesses,” it said.
The DUCCF further called upon the Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, and the district administration to crack down effectively on illegal establishments, while ensuring absolute protection for business owners against “self-styled vigilantes or extortionists”.
“Business chambers should be extra cautious on unions and associations extorting money as they have been very vocal and concerned on the issue of extortion and mushrooming of unions, associations in Dimapur,” it added.
Reiterating that no one is above the law, the DUCCF appealed to all colony councils and youth wings under its jurisdiction to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities to maintain peace, security, and civic discipline in Dimapur.
“While civil society and student organizations have a right to safeguard societal welfare, no one is above the law,” the federation asserted, while also asking business bodies to remain neutral and impartial and “stand together in justice for the good of our society's unity and integrity.”
