Northeast desk, 29th April: Business establishments across Nagaland resumed operations on Monday following a three-day shutdown called by industry bodies to protest against escalating extortion activities by underground groups, according to officials.
Shops and commercial establishments reopened for varying durations, with industry bodies in different districts announcing distinct relaxation timings. The shutdown, initially observed in Dimapur, gained momentum as other districts joined the protest, heeding the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce & Industries (CNCCI)’s call.
The CNCCI urged the state government to address the issue of “unabated extortions, intimidations, and summons” by underground groups, prompting action from business communities statewide. While the CNCCI specified a relaxation period from 12 noon to 6 pm on Monday, varying schedules were announced by other business bodies in different districts.
Traffic congestion ensued across the state as residents hurried to replenish essential supplies amidst the reopening of businesses.
In a bid to address these concerns, the Nagaland Police introduced a dedicated app, encouraging the public and business community to report instances of extortion and drug trafficking, officials stated.