The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), Minority Department, has expressed concern over a reported directive dated October 23, 2026, calling for Sunday shop closures and shutdown of businesses, and urged the State government to clarify its authenticity, legal status, scope and implementation.

In a statement, the department said the issue should be addressed through dialogue, mutual respect and the rule of law, while recognising Nagaland’s distinct cultural and religious values.

Acknowledging Nagaland’s Christian heritage and the significance of Sunday as a day of worship, rest and family life, the department appealed to traders and business establishments to remain sensitive to the faith and customs of the people.

It said the Minority Department extended its cooperation and encouraged businesses, wherever practicable, to observe Sunday closure in a spirit of goodwill, understanding and respect for Christian values.

The department, however, noted that the reported directive may have created doubt, uncertainty and panic among traders and business establishments. It urged the State government and the concerned authorities to issue a clear and timely clarification so that business owners were not left to act on rumours or fear.

It also appealed to traders to remain calm, refrain from spreading unverified information and seek guidance from competent authorities.

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Emphasising that measures affecting livelihoods must be lawful, fair and implemented with due process, the department said Indian citizens and linguistic minorities who had lived and worked in Nagaland for generations contributed to the State’s social and economic life. Their dignity, safety and lawful livelihoods, it added, must be respected.

The statement stressed that concerns should be addressed through dialogue and lawful procedures rather than intimidation, arbitrary exclusion or discrimination based on origin.

Calling upon community leaders, traders, civil society organisations and residents to preserve peace, the department urged all concerned to refrain from inflammatory statements and cooperate in finding a practical arrangement that respects Christian values, protects livelihoods and strengthens peaceful coexistence.

“Respect for Nagaland’s culture and Christian values must go hand in hand with dignity, reassurance, lawful opportunity and sustainable development for every lawful resident,” the statement added.