Dimapur, October 30 (MExN): The Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) has endorsed the recent joint declaration of the Naga Tribe Hohos (NTHs) and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) on the unacceptability of forming new Naga political factions, terming it as “the need of the hour and the right bold step.”
The NCD, being the apex Naga tribal body in Dimapur comprising 20 Naga tribes and four affiliated civil society organisations, fully endorsed and supported the landmark decision, the council conveyed in a statement.
It further described the decision as the “right antidote against fragmentations” of Naga Political Groups (NPGs), contending that “multiple and unabated taxation is the root cause of multiplying Naga political factions.”
The NCD also reiterated its appeal to all NPGs to seriously abide by the October 31, 2013 Dimapur public rally resolution of “One Government, One Tax.”
However, it expressed concern that since then, rather than coming together under one government, the number of NPGs has increased to more than 28 splinter groups, defying the voice of the public.
In this connection, the NCD extended unequivocal endorsement of the NTHs and FNR’s October 19 declaration. It further hailed what it termed as the “exemplary decision” of the Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC) for banning NPGs from levying taxes on local entrepreneurs under its jurisdiction and called for its emulation by other Naga tribal apex hohos.
The NCD also demanded that the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG) ensure that all cadres of NPGs under ceasefire are “kept under their designated camps and are provided with necessary ration and maintenance so that citizens are not harassed.”
It further urged the Nagaland Home Minister and the Director General of Police (DGP) to ensure that any case of extortion or illegal taxation is “immediately dealt with an iron hand and given befitting punishment.”
“The vibrant and bustling Dimapur is now losing its lustre as a shopping destination and a hub of trade and commerce due to the strangulation of the city by unabated extortion and the syndicate system,” the NCD stated.
With the onset of the festive season, the council also assured that it would “ensure zero tolerance towards extortion, illegal taxation, or any anti-social activities.”
Hence, the NCD appealed to all citizens of Dimapur to remain alert and vigilant so that such matters are promptly reported to the police and appropriate authorities.
