Total shutter-down call evokes mixed response in Dimapur

Our Reporter
Dimapur, Sep. 30 (EMN): The “total shutter down” called by Dimapur-based civil society organisations passed off peacefully on Friday but it received a mixed response as some localities didn’t support the call.

The Dimapur District Citizens’ Forum (DDCF) had spearheaded the “total shutter-down” in Dimapur on Thursday from 6 am to 6 pm to show resentment over the government’s recent order for ‘shifting of branches/cells to new Deputy Commissioner’s Office Complex, Chümoukedima’.

While business establishments in most part of Dimapur remained closed, responding to the call of the DDCF, it was business as usual in areas like Chümoukedima and Nagarjan.

Naga Tribal Union Chümoukedima Town (NTUCT) President Lhousito Khro told Eastern Mirror that the union will continue to support the state government’s decision for shifting of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office to the new DC complex headquarters at Chümoukedima town.

Maintaining that the government has taken the ‘best decision’, Khro said it is ‘very wrong’ to give tribal colour to the issue. He justified their stand stating that it was for the convenience and the good of all.

“Those who are trying to give tribal colour in this issue, rather, they have vested interest. No one should project this issue in the tribal line. Tribal issue does not arise at all,” he stated while pointing out that Chümoukedima is the “centre-most” area of the district.

“Dimapur district comprises all the neighbouring villages and there are also lots of villages after Chümoukedima. For them, it is easy and convenient to come to Chümoukedima. Because of the heavy traffic congestion in town it takes time for those coming from the neighbouring villages to reach the DC office in Dimapur and we have been getting lots of complaints for the same,” he maintained.

“The presumption that Dimapur is easily accessible was very wrong. Chümoukedima is rather easily accessible so one shouldn’t presume things. Chümoukedima is the best place and the government has taken a good decision considering the convenience and comfort of the people. It is not only for people living in Dimapur,” he pointed out.