I, Khonbi Jemu, resident of Purana Bazaar, Dimapur would like to appeal to the leaders of the various factions of the Naga Political Groups to hear out my story. That, I too am a patriot having served in the Naga Army, a person who has contributed to the Naga political struggle however insignificant it may be, having joined the Naga struggle when studying in class B.
After years of service, I left the Naga Army. But being uneducated, it was a difficult period for me. However, through God’s grace, I managed to earn a living doing odd businesses. Finally, in 1991, I started M/S K. Nency Bricks at Bamunpukhuri, Dimapur. I rightfully declare that since 1991, K Nency Bricks has been paying tax to the NPGs as and when asked to do so. Three (3) years back, I took loan from a bank to upgrade the brick-kiln However, even during this difficult period, I never stopped paying tax to the NPGs. Needless to say, I am going through financial hardships for the last three years.
For the year 2013-14, I repeatedly appealed to the NPG tax collectors to exempt me from paying tax but to no avail. For the year 2014-15, I am facing the same situation. I am constantly reminding the tax collectors that I too am a former soldier of Naga movement, but it seems the younger generation has lost respect for former comrades. I have told those comrades/collectors who cared to listen, that taxation should not kill Naga businesses, but my words seem to fall on deaf ears. If I have to make tax payments to four to five factions, K. Nency Bricks will be left with no choice but to shutdown and declare bankruptcy.
As a former comrade, it pains me when the NPGs are least sympathetic to my problem when I have faithfully contributed to our Naga cause through personal sacrifices. As an individual, I have been prompt in paying tax, yet, when I. face problem, my concerns and pleas are brushed aside
I still want to believe that the leaders of the NPGs will treat former comrades respectfully. Instead of just collecting taxes, the NPGs should institute welfare schemes and financially help those former comrades who are struggling in their personal and business lives too. The leaders are requested to look into the issue and deal with my case keeping in mind the larger interest of Naga business community.
Khonbi Jemu
Purana Bazaar, Dimapur
