In a determined appeal, the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) has written to the government, bringing to light critical concerns regarding representation and recognition. The letter, issued in the backdrop of impressive tax contributions, emphasizes the business community’s pivotal role in the state’s economy and governance.
Taking pride in its contributions, CNCCI stated, “the Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection in the state stood at ₹1,064 crores during the financial year 2023–24, in addition to several hundred crores collected through VAT.” It pointed out that the business community remains “committed and proud to be the highest contributor to the state’s internal revenue—second only to central grants and funding,” despite the absence of formal recognition from the state.
CNCCI expressed optimism for the future, noting that “the GST collection can reach the ₹1,500 crore mark within the next few years under conducive conditions,” if cross-border trade policies are improved and the law and order situation in Manipur stabilizes.
While thanking the government for nominating Presidents of the Mokokchung and Kohima Chambers of Commerce and Industry—as per Government Decision No. CON-6/LOR-II/2006(Vol-I) dated Kohima, 14th September 2021—CNCCI voiced “deep concerns and grievances” over several unresolved issues.
Foremost among these is the call for equal representation for all district chambers. CNCCI said the exclusion of eight district chambers has led to “widespread dissatisfaction” and “gives rise to perceptions of step motherly treatment.” The Confederation demanded “the immediate nomination of representatives from all remaining district chambers to their respective Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).”
Secondly, the business body criticized the non-implementation of the government’s own decision and order, calling it “disheartening” and stating that it “reflects poorly on governance and undermines stakeholders’ trust.” Warning of future action, CNCCI noted it “may be compelled to resort to democratic means of peaceful protests—if these long-standing commitments continue to be ignored.”
The letter also raised concerns over the qualifications of government nominees, asserting that “several government-nominated representatives do not meet the criteria outlined in the Municipal Act,” while the chambers “fully meet these qualifications” and have actively supported governance in the absence of elected bodies for over two decades.
Further, CNCCI objected to the excess nominees beyond legal provisions, observing that “the number of government nominees exceeds the limits prescribed by the Municipal Act.” Emphasizing the financial contribution of the business community, it added, “denying them rightful representation undermines the core purpose of local self-governance.”
Concluding the letter, CNCCI made a final appeal to the government, reminding it of multiple formal representations and verbal assurances received in the past, including at the 1st North East States Chamber of Commerce Business Conclave in Dimapur.
“Having exhausted all official avenues,” the Confederation urged the Government to act “before the 20th of April 2025.” It warned that failing this, CNCCI would be “compelled to exercise all democratic options available to ensure our voice is heard and our rightful demands are met without further delay.”
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