Dimapur Municipal Council rejects allegations; says ULBs operating within legal frames

DIMAPUR — Facing a heap of allegations—especially from business bodies—in recent weeks, the newly installed Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) has dismissed claims of it promoting syndicates and monopolies as speculative and unwarranted.

In a press statement issued on Sunday, the civic body further asserted that there was no issue of “multiple taxations” whatsoever.

“The DMC, and all ULBs, operate within the legal framework provided by the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2023, alongside the guidelines issued by the State Government, from time to time. Allegations suggesting that ULBs promote syndicates and monopolies are speculative and unwarranted. In fact, in the last two decades, we have seen the mushrooming of syndicates and illegitimate organisations, and the DMC is dedicated to addressing this issue.

“Permits and licences are meticulously reviewed, weighing all pros and cons, and are only issued when necessary. This is done to serve the broader interests of the ULBS and the public. It is crucial to acknowledge that the responsibilities of ULBs are extensive and diverse, encompassing a wide range of community services and infrastructure maintenance,” the statement read.

According to the DMC, there are no instances of forceful collection or charging rates higher than prescribed. 

Should there be any discrepancies or instances that warrant attention, the DMC urges the public to report such matters to the DMC Office. We are committed to addressing any concerns promptly and effectively.

Also, it maintained that no collection gates have been set up on national, international, or state highways, and no taxes or fees are being levied on GST items. “Taxes are levied only in accordance with Section 124 of the NMA, 2023. This is not intended to generate profit and all collections are ultimately returned to public service,” it added.

The DMC pointed out that ULBs are statutory entities endowed with both legislative and executive powers to govern local affairs. “As such, it is not mandatory to consult any particular organisation on such matters, although suggestions are always encouraged and welcome,” it asserted.

The civic body requested anybody with grievances to approach the office instead of going to the press “just to create confusion and tarnish the image of the newly installed civic bodies”. 

“This practice of making sweeping statements in the press defames and disheartens the newly formed ULBs. As mentioned earlier, suggestions are always welcome,” the statement read.

It pointed out that the DMC as well as other ULBs in the state have remained dormant for the last two decades. “Now that elections have been held and civic bodies have been installed in place, the mandate of the people must be respected to serve the society in the best possible way.

“We must understand that there are procedures to be followed and that the betterment of Dimapur is a process and not an overnight affair. Public trust and understanding is vital in reaching our common goal. As such, it is appealed to the citizens not to cast aspersions based on hearsay as utmost efforts are being taken to streamline the system after the long gap,” it stated.

Also read: Business community demands end to ‘illegal taxation’ by Dimapur Municipal Council