The indefinite shutdown of businesses in Nagaland, spearheaded by the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industries (DCCI) to protest against alleged "extortion" by Naga political groups, has significantly disrupted normal life, prompting residents to flock to neighbouring Assam in search of essential commodities.
The shutdown, initiated by the DCCI on Friday, aimed to highlight the perceived government inaction in safeguarding businesses in Dimapur, the state's commercial hub.
The Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CNCCI) extended its support to the protest, leading to shutdowns in other districts from Saturday onwards.
With markets shuttered across the state, residents, particularly those residing along the inter-state boundary with Assam, have resorted to crossing the border to purchase essential goods.
Despite the upheaval, there have been no official restrictions on the movement of people and vehicles.
In response to the mounting inconvenience, the CNCCI announced a temporary relaxation of the shutdown, allowing for a six-hour window from noon to 6 p.m. on Monday to facilitate public access to essential items.
This decision was made in light of the abrupt imposition of shutdowns in various districts without prior notice to the populace.
Expressing concern over the rampant extortion and intimidation by underground groups, CNCCI urged the government to take decisive action to curb such activities.
State Home Commissioner Vikeyie Kenya instructed law enforcement agencies to adopt stringent measures and report any violations of ceasefire ground rules to the Ceasefire Monitoring Group for appropriate action.
Meanwhile, the DCCI presented a five-point charter of demands to the state government, seeking clarity on the legality of taxation by Naga political groups and advocating for swift action against extortion, kidnapping, and transportation-related crimes.
Among its demands, the DCCI has stressed on the need for the government to unequivocally address the issue of taxation by NPGs and empower law enforcement agencies to crack down on illicit activities perpetrated by such groups.
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