Northeast Desk, 6th May: The recent two-and-a-half-day shutter down strike in Dimapur, spanning from April 26 to 27, with a half-day extension on April 29, has resulted in significant financial losses across various sectors and raised concerns over unauthorized collections in the city.
During the strike period, business transactions among trade and business firms experienced a substantial setback, with banks also witnessing a drastic reduction in financial transactions. Reports obtained by Nagaland Post revealed that bank transactions plummeted from an average of around Rs. 9.12 crore per day until April 25 to approximately Rs. 2.76 crore per day across the five banks operating in Dimapur during the strike, resulting in a staggering net reduction of Rs. 6.36 crore per day.
The strike, called off following the state government’s acceptance of the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI’s) 5-Point Charter of demands, emphasized the urgent need for action against illegal collections. The government directed law enforcement authorities to act swiftly against those involved in illegal collections, with instructions to book them under the National Security Act (NSA). However, reports indicate ongoing forcible collections by certain groups despite the government’s directives.
Concerns have also been raised over recent incidents of unauthorized parking fee collections in Dimapur. Residents and businesses have reported instances of individuals demanding parking fees under the guise of Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) regulations, raising questions about the legitimacy of such collections. Clarity is sought from the DMC regarding authorized areas for parking tax collection and applicable rates to curb unauthorized practices.
Furthermore, the surge in vegetable prices at Dimapur markets has added to the concerns of residents. The DMC clarified that market rates are determined based on input provided by wholesalers, indicating that price determinations are not within the purview of the civic body but lie with wholesalers.
Read More: Academic Leaders Unite Against Rahul Gandhi’s Allegations on Vice Chancellor Selection Process