Dimapur, May 14 – A major section of Nagaland’s business community is set to shut down operations indefinitely starting May 19, as a mark of protest against the state government’s failure to address their long-standing demand for representation in urban local bodies (ULBs).
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Khekugha Muru, President of the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI), who said at least 9 out of 17 major commerce and industry associations across the state would participate in the "indefinite voluntary business shutdown."
Protest Over Lack of Nominated Seats in ULBs
The associations have been persistently demanding nominated seats for trade bodies in their respective ULBs, arguing that their inclusion is vital for fair and effective urban governance. While the CNCCI had previously declared a statewide business shutdown on April 24, it was withdrawn following discussions with the state government. However, the talks did not yield any tangible outcomes, according to Muru.“We have submitted multiple representations to the government over the years, but there has been no concrete response,” he said.
Districts to Face Major Impact
The indefinite closure is expected to significantly affect commercial activities in key districts, including Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland, Peren, Wokha, Zunheboto, Phek, Tseminyu, and Meluri.However, Muru clarified that the strike is not meant to be confrontational. “The shutdown is not anti-government. We are only exercising our democratic rights. It is going to be voluntary,” he stated.
Essential Services to Remain Unaffected
Despite the extensive nature of the protest, essential services will remain operational. The CNCCI has assured the public that medical stores, emergency services, and other critical sectors will not be disrupted.The move signals growing discontent among business communities over their exclusion from decision-making processes in urban governance and sets the stage for renewed pressure on the Nagaland government to reconsider its stance.
