KCCI seeks helpline to report illegal taxation, ensure anonymity

KOHIMA — The members of the media cell of the Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) have informed that some members of the trading community were exploiting the bandh called by KCCI by raising the prices of goods in Kohima.

Speaking to Eastern Mirror on Monday, they stated that they had received complaints and were making efforts to identify traders who were taking unfair advantage of the situation.

Meanwhile, acknowledging the state government’s attention to the demands of the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), KCCI has urged stakeholders to join them alongside the apex body, the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI), in the fight against illegal taxation and anti-social elements.

They emphasised that multiple taxes affect all citizens, not just DCCI, and added that the severity of issues like illegal taxation and anti-social activities may vary across districts, but they remain pervasive.

KCCI requested that the state government establish a helpline or a social media platform managed by the highest level of law enforcement (police) to protect the identities of people who report instances of illegal taxation and anti-social behaviour.

It acknowledged that many people are hesitant to report such activities for fear of retaliation, so ensuring their anonymity is critical for effective reporting and resolution of these issues.

They affirmed that trading communities, burdened by legal and illegal taxes, adjust prices to maintain margins, ultimately affecting consumers, emphasising the importance of public awareness in gaining support for organisations advocating for their rights.

KMC warns traders

Speaking to this newspaper, Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) Administrator T Lanusenla Longkumer said that strict action would be initiated against traders involved in selling goods above fixed prices.

She emphasised that the bandh has not resulted in higher fuel prices, rendering commodity price increases unjustified.

Consumers have been encouraged to report instances of illegal price fixing or any other complaints about goods and commodities to KMC at 7005694685 or 9436203061.