CNCCI Demands Written Assurance for Inclusion in Urban Local Bodies
Kohima, May 17—The Nagaland government has appealed to the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) to reconsider its proposed indefinite shutdown of businesses across nine districts beginning May 19. The shutdown call was made to press for the inclusion of District Chamber of Commerce and Industries (DCCI) representatives in all urban local bodies (ULBs), especially town councils.The CNCCI, the apex body of 11 DCCIs in the state, seeks formal representation in the ULBs. Its president, Khekugha Muru, announced the shutdown across Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland, Peren, Wokha, Zunheboto, Phek, Tseminyu, and Meluri districts.
Govt Cites Existing Inclusion and Legislative Limitations
Advisor for Municipal Affairs & Urban Development and MLA Zhaleo Rio said the government has already taken steps to include the business community in urban governance. He highlighted that three members from the chambers have been nominated to the Dimapur Municipal Council, the Kohima Municipal Council, and the Mokokchung Municipal Council.“This much the government has allowed,” said Rio, pointing to the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023. He explained that government nominations to ULBs have been reduced from a 1:5 to a 1:3 ratio following the third amendment to the Act. Any further expansion of this representation would require broader consensus, he added.
Rio also noted that the matter was deliberated in a recent cabinet meeting, which approved chamber representation in price regulation discussions for essential commodities.
Ongoing Talks and Demand for Written Commitment
Nagaland government spokesperson and minister K G Kenye has acknowledged the validity of CNCCI’s demands. He assured that the government is working to identify towns where DCCI members can be included in ULBs and requested the CNCCI not to proceed with the shutdown.However, CNCCI vice chairman Seyievilie Mor stated that during a Friday meeting, Kenye promised the issue would be reviewed by the state cabinet. Despite this, Mor affirmed that the indefinite shutdown would proceed as planned unless the government provides a formal written assurance.
With tensions mounting and business disruptions looming, all eyes are on the state government’s next move to prevent a widespread commercial shutdown in Nagaland starting Monday.
