- DIMAPUR — The Confederation of Nagaland
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) has issued an ultimatum to the
Nagaland government, threatening democratic protests if their demands for equal
representation in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are not met by April 20.
- In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the
confederation alluded to selective implementation of representation in ULBs, a
disregard for the government's own previous decisions, questionable
qualifications of government nominees, and an excessive number of nominees
exceeding limits set by the Municipal Act.
- The CNCCI thanked the chief minister for nominating the
respective presidents of Mokokchung and Kohima Chambers of Commerce and
Industry to their ULBs but expressed disappointment that the remaining were
excluded.
- It contended that this “step-motherly treatment” contradicts
the principle of equality. “CNCCI, therefore, demands the immediate nomination
of representatives from all remaining district chambers to their respective
Urban Local Bodies,” the letter read.
- Furthermore, the organisation criticised the government's
failure to implement its own decision taken on September 14, 2021.
Also read: Nagaland: Protest intensifies over 'backdoor' regularisation
- It claimed that several government-nominated representatives
do not meet the qualifications outlined in the Municipal Act, while the
district chambers fully meet these criteria and have actively supported ULB
administrators for over two decades.
- The CNCCI also raised concerns about the number of
government nominees exceeding the limits prescribed by the Municipal Act. They
emphasised that the business community contributes 70-80% of ULB revenues
through various taxes and fees, making their rightful representation essential
for effective local self-governance.
- “Despite the absence of formal recognition from the state
government, the business community remains committed and proud to be the
highest contributor to the state’s internal revenue—second only to central
grants and funding,” it asserted.
- Citing exhaustion of all official channels over the past
four years, the CNCCI made a final appeal for the government to address their
long-pending and legitimate demands before April 20.
- “Failing which,” it declared, "CNCCI will be compelled
to exercise all democratic options available to ensure our voice is heard and
our rightful demands are met without further delay."
