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Clarifies no issue of ‘multiple taxations’
Dimapur, October 13 (MExN): The Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) today refuted what it termed as allegations suggesting that Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) promote syndicates and monopolies, calling them “speculative and unwarranted.”
Instead, it noted that in the last two decades, there has been the mushrooming of syndicates and illegitimate organisations, and the DMC is dedicated to addressing this issue.
In a press statement, the DMC pointed out that permits and licences are meticulously reviewed, weighing all pros and cons, and are only issued when necessary to serve the broader interests of the ULBs and the public.
It maintained that the responsibilities of ULBs are extensive and diverse, encompassing a wide range of community services and infrastructure maintenance.
Accordingly, it asserted that there are no instances of forceful collection or charging rates higher than those prescribed.
In the event of any discrepancies or issues that require attention, the DMC urged the public to report these matters directly to its office and assured its commitment to addressing any concerns promptly and effectively.
Meanwhile, regarding the issue of collection gates, the DMC clarified that no such gates are being set up on national, international, or state highways, and no taxes or fees are being levied on GST (Goods and Services Tax) items.
Taxes are levied only in accordance with Section 124 of the Nagaland Municipal Act (NMA) 2023 and imposed not with the intention of generating profit, and all collections are ultimately returned to public service, it claimed.
There is no issue of “multiple taxations” whatsoever, it added.
The DMC’s statement came in response to recent “concerns and opinions” expressed by various organisations related to tax collections, syndication, etc.
While welcoming these dialogues and extending its appreciation, the DMC noted that ULBs operate within the legal framework provided by the NMA 2023, along with the guidelines issued by the State Government from time to time.
In addition, it stressed that the ULBs are statutory entities endowed with both legislative and executive powers to govern local affairs and it is not mandatory to consult any particular organisation on such matters, although suggestions are always encouraged and welcomed.
Nevertheless, the DMC said that it remains open to dialogue and encourages all members of the community to engage with the Council, ensuring that issues are addressed in a constructive and collaborative manner.
Anyone with grievances to approach the office instead of going to the press just to “create confusion and tarnish the image of the newly installed civic bodies,” it urged.
If there are any complaints about unfair or illegal activities, they should be brought to the notice of the DMC or the concerned ULB instead of making “sweeping statements in the press that defame and dishearten the newly formed ULBs,” it added.
The DMC also highlighted that all ULBs in Nagaland have remained dormant for the last two decades, and with the elections and installations of these civic bodies, the mandate of the people must be respected to serve society in the best possible way.
“We must understand that there are procedures to be followed and that the betterment of Dimapur is a process and not an overnight affair,” it added.
The DMC noted that public trust and understanding are vital in achieving common goals and appealed to citizens not to “cast aspersions based on hearsay, as utmost efforts are being taken to streamline the system after the long gap.”
“We appeal for public cooperation and understanding as we continue to navigate and address community needs,” it added.
