The Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has expressed unequivocal support to the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) in raising alarm over alleged extortion, intimidation, illegal taxation and the unchecked proliferation of unions in Dimapur.

In a statement issued by its Media Cell, the Federation described Dimapur as the commercial backbone of Nagaland and said the current business climate is being adversely affected by the uncontrolled mushrooming of overlapping unions and unauthorized associations. It alleged that instead of safeguarding traders’ interests, certain elements have turned the marketplace into a platform for pressure tactics and personal gain.

The DUCCF appealed to the Dimapur District Planning and Development Board (DDPDB) and all concerned Heads of Departments to take what it termed a bold and historic decision in the larger public interest. It urged that no recommendation for registration of any union or welfare association be issued without a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the concerned colony council and the DCCI. The Federation also called for mandatory ground-level verification before granting official recognition.

Further, it stated that unions operating without the consent and coordination of the DCCI and DUCCF should have their licenses reviewed and, where necessary, cancelled—particularly those allegedly functioning for personal benefit. According to the Federation, overlapping jurisdictions among multiple unions have created confusion, hostility and financial burdens on traders.

The DUCCF also expressed serious concern over the recent exposure and closure of multiple unauthorized check gates operating across Dimapur district. While appreciating the district administration for dismantling the illegal structures, it said the larger issue remains unresolved—namely, identifying the individuals and groups responsible for operating the gates and collecting money from the public.

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Alleging that citizens, transporters and commuters were subjected to unlawful collections for years, the Federation termed such practices as organized extortion and questioned how such operations could continue without involvement, protection or negligence at some level.

The DUCCF demanded immediate identification and public disclosure of all persons, groups and organizations involved, along with their arrest and prosecution under relevant laws. It also called for departmental inquiries if any government officials or police personnel are found complicit or negligent.

Posing a direct question to the concerned police authorities, the Federation asked whether those involved in illegal tax collection would be allowed to go free or face the same legal consequences as any other offender.

Emphasizing that the rule of law must apply equally to all, the DUCCF stated that selective enforcement would erode public confidence in governance. It reiterated its commitment to justice, transparency and accountability, and called upon the government to act decisively to send a clear message that unlawful collections will not be tolerated in Dimapur.