Dimapur, February 28 (MExN): Expressing serious concern over the closure of multiple unauthorised check gates operating across the district, the Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has urged the administration to go beyond merely dismantling the structures and initiate a thorough investigation to identify the masterminds behind the extortion racket.
The federation in a statement acknowledged the district administration's action of shutting down the unauthorised check gates but asserted that the closure alone was insufficient to address the root of the problem.
“For years, citizens, transporters, and daily commuters have allegedly been subjected to unlawful and self-styled collections. This is nothing short of organized extortion,” the DUCCF stated. It raised questions regarding the complicity that allows such operations to flourish, suggesting that these activities “cannot function without active involvement, protection, or negligence at some level.”
The federation has put forth a series of demands, including the immediate identification and public disclosure of all individuals, groups, and organizations involved in operating these illegal tolls. It has called for their immediate arrest and prosecution under relevant legal provisions. Furthermore, the DUCCF has demanded a departmental inquiry if any government officials or police personnel are found complicit or negligent.
It also questioned the police department whether “these illegal self-styled tax collectors be allowed to go scot-free, or will they be arrested like any other offender under the law?”
“If the rule of law applies to common citizens, it must equally apply to those who illegally collect money in the name of authority or influence. Selective enforcement will only weaken public faith in governance,” it stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to justice, transparency and accountability, the DUCCF cautioned against any system that exploits the public through illegal collections. “The government must act decisively to send a clear message that such unlawful activities will not be tolerated in Dimapur. And Dimapur needs changes, not goons, to run our city,” DUCCF added.
Meanwhile, the federation has also extended its full support to the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) in its ongoing protest against extortion, illegal taxation and the rapid proliferation of unregulated unions in Dimapur.
In an appeal to the Dimapur District Planning & Development Board (DPDB), the DUCCF demanded stringent measures to restore order in the markets. It urged that no new union or welfare association be registered without a mandatory ‘No Objection Certificate’ from the concerned colony council and the DCCI.
The federation stressed the need for mandatory ground-level verification before any recognition is granted, warning that multiple unions with overlapping jurisdictions have created confusion, hostility, and an unbearable financial burden on traders. It urged the DPDB to review and cancel licenses of unions operating without consent from the DCCI and DUCCF.
