Dimapur: President of NSCN-K (Niki) group, Niki Sumi, on Monday refuted accusations leveled against the Naga Political Groups (NPGs) in light of the demands raised by the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).
The self-styled (SS) General (retired) argued that the issue at hand concerns negotiations between the Government of India and the NPGs, questioning the relevance of DCCI’s involvement in such matters.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday regarding the indefinite shutter down initiated by DCCI on April 26 to protest against multiple taxation in Dimapur, Sumi criticised DCCI’s approach and demands.
“That is why I am saying – their approach is wrong, their demand is wrong,” he said.
He cautioned against potential repercussions stemming from their actions.
Sumi challenged the notion of placing the interests of DCCI and the business community above those of the Naga people, asserting that the NPGs prioritise the ‘national’ issues of the Naga people.
The NSCN-K chief said that although there may be 24 Naga groups, there are only three NPGs which are recognised by the Government of India- NSCN-IM (Framework Agreement), Naga National Political Groups (WC/NNPGs) (Agreed Position), and the NSCN-K.
Regarding claims of taxation by various organisations and government departments, Sumi acknowledged the involvement of certain “related departments”. “Only the administration department is clean,” he said.
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He also addressed the topic of young Naga entrepreneurs, noting a discrepancy between perception and reality. Sumi pointed out that while there is widespread discussion about young Naga entrepreneurs, the actual number of genuine Naga entrepreneurs is limited, with many businesses operating under non-Naga ownership.
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