Responding to the recent press statement issued by the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) on Monday issued a rejoinder addressing multiple concerns raised by DCCI, particularly regarding trade regulations, fees, and civic governance.
In a statement, DMC spokesperson Neingutoulie Kengruse said that the DMC acknowledged the ongoing public discourse surrounding DCCI’s demand for nomination of members to the ULBs and the proposed indefinite “voluntary shutter down” in support of these demands.
However, as elected councillors, who have received the mandate of the public, DMC said it was the prerogative of the state government to address such matters and also the public opinion on the indefinite shutter down.
Taking note of certain issues raised by DCCI pertaining to the functioning of the DMC, the spokesperson said that the councillors were constrained to clarify the matters and put them in perspective in the interest of transparency and governance.
Trade license fees and charges: Responding to criticism over an “illogical” escalation of trade license (TL) fees as well as imposition of a “new variety” of fees, the DMC clarified that the TL fee hike was marginal and implemented to fund the digitization of all data and services provided to the vendors in the form of online apps, revival of website and to enable online payment services from trade license fee, excluding sanitation fees (for commercial establishment).
DMC also said that a nominal fee was introduced for wholesalers for price regulations in the market, done in accordance with the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, Part-IV Chapter 1, Clause 124.
The DMC categorically stated that it is the only legally empowered body to impose or collect fees, taxes, or issue permits within its jurisdiction. Any such collections made by unauthorized groups or individuals are deemed illegal, for which the DMC cannot be held responsible, it stated.
Sanitation fee (RSF): Regarding sanitation, DMC said that it was compelled to marginally raise the fee from Rs. 60 to Rs. 80 in view of catering to the need of expanded area of operations and provide efficient services.
On the issue of imposition of lease of commodities like mineral water, potatoes, tomatoes, and dry fish etc., contributing to price hikes, the DMC strongly denied any authorization or permitted syndication of items as mentioned.
The Council reaffirmed that it remains committed to the welfare of the public who have voted them to form the DMC. Therefore, DMC said it strongly opposed any unauthorized collection or market syndication, stating that such practices not only exploit consumers but also adversely impact local farmers, Naga entrepreneurs and public.
Regarding the “controversial sale” of items like as Christmas stars, dustbins, and fire extinguishers, the DMC responded that these sales were carried out transparently and in accordance with the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023. However, it admitted that the entire issue should have been properly monitored.
While expressing appreciation for the advice given to DMC to run its affairs, the DMC, however, reminded that it is composed of elected councillors who have been given a clear mandate by the people and sought cooperation from all sections of the society in order to make Dimapur urban area take its rightful place not only as the commercial capital but also a thriving metropolitan city in Nagaland.
The DMC also invited citizens and business stakeholders to approach its office or its councillors for any clarification.
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