Northeast Desk, 30th April: In response to the pervasive issue of extortion plaguing Nagaland, the state government, under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, has unveiled stringent measures to enforce the Cease Fire Ground Rules (CFGR) and crackdown on illegal activities. This announcement comes in the wake of recent protests and strikes in Dimapur, prompted by grievances over extortion, illegal taxation, and harassment faced by the business community.
Addressing the media in Kohima, Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, who also oversees the Home portfolio, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating all forms of unlawful activities. He emphasized that extortion should not be mistaken for taxation and underscored that such actions would be met with severe consequences under the National Security Act (NSA).
Patton urged the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) and the Confederation of Nagaland Chambers of Commerce & Industry (CNCCI) to reconsider their ongoing indefinite shutdown, highlighting the inconvenience faced by the public. He disclosed that while no formal complaints had been filed, the Nagaland Police had taken proactive action in 85 cases related to extortion over the past six months.
In a significant development, the state cabinet, during its meeting on April 26, resolved to appeal to the Chairman of the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG)/Ceasefire Supervisory Board (CFSB) to rigorously enforce CFGR. The directive includes apprehending perpetrators engaged in illegal activities under NSA and detaining them outside the state.
Subsequently, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Nagaland initiated action by urging the CFMG/CFSB Chairman to ensure adherence to CFGR and clamp down on unauthorized and illegal activities causing unrest, particularly in Dimapur.
Furthermore, the state government reiterated its stance against illegal taxation, asserting that only statutory bodies or law enforcement agencies were authorized to issue summons. The DGP emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguard whistleblowers and urged the public to report illegal activities through designated channels, promising confidentiality.
Addressing concerns regarding uniformed personnel’s involvement in illicit activities, the DGP affirmed that the law applied equally to all, vowing zero tolerance for misconduct within the department.
The government’s proactive measures, coupled with promises of infrastructure development and bolstered law enforcement capabilities, underscore a resolute effort to restore peace and stability in Nagaland. As the state unites against extortion and illegal taxation, the administration calls for public cooperation and vigilance to uphold the rule of law.
Citizens are encouraged to report any illegal activity through the toll-free number 112, the Nagaland Police app “Made In Nagaland,” or the department’s social media platforms.
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