Dimapur, October 28 (MExN): The Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) has expressed concern over a reported directive announcing compulsory Sunday closure of shops and the closure of businesses owned or operated by non-Nagas, urging the competent authorities to clarify its legal status and safeguard the lawful business interests of long-settled residents.
In a statement, the LMFN referred to a press release dated October 23, 2026, attributed to the Ministry of Information and Publicity, Federal Republic Government of Nagaland (FRGN), which reportedly announced the measures.
The forum expressed solidarity with concerns raised by the Naga Council Dimapur, CNCCI, DMC, EDTC, the Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, DUCCF, DCCI and other organisations, particularly regarding the proposed phased closure of business establishments owned by non-Nagas in the state.
While respecting the distinct identity, traditions, Christian faith and economic aspirations of the Naga people, the LMFN said the concerns of permanent non-Naga residents, particularly long-established linguistic minorities who have contributed to Nagaland's social and economic development for generations, deserved fair consideration and protection of their legitimate interests.
It noted that constitutional provisions, including Articles 14 and 19(1)(g), could be relevant to considerations of equality before the law and the freedom to practise any profession or carry on any lawful trade or business, subject to applicable constitutional restrictions.
Depending on the circumstances, Articles 21 and 300A could also be relevant to questions concerning personal liberty and property rights, it said.
The LMFN acknowledged the special constitutional framework applicable to Nagaland under Article 371A of the Constitution of India, while emphasising that the precise legal implications of the reported directive would depend on the authority under which it was issued, the applicable laws and the circumstances of its implementation.
The forum said the matter required careful consideration by the competent authorities and added that it did not wish to prejudge any legal question without a comprehensive assessment of the relevant facts and applicable laws.
It cautioned that directives threatening the closure of business establishments or curtailing the lawful rights of citizens could create fear and uncertainty within the business community, disrupt market activities and contribute to an economic downturn driven by apprehension.
"The economy does not distinguish between Naga and non-Naga," the forum said, adding that it was an interconnected system in which every community contributed to the state's overall economic well-being.
The LMFN said promoting indigenous entrepreneurship and protecting the economic interests of the Naga people were important objectives. However, it maintained that these could be pursued through constructive policies, fair opportunities and meaningful dialogue, while giving due consideration to the livelihoods, lawful business interests and rights of long-settled residents.
It further said any measure affecting the operation or ownership of businesses should be consistent with the applicable constitutional and legal framework and should not result in unlawful discrimination on the grounds of racial or ethnic identity.
The forum appealed to the competent authorities to clarify the legal status, scope and implementation of the reported directive. It also called for constructive engagement among the authorities, indigenous organisations, business associations and representatives of affected communities to ensure that any measures concerning business establishments were considered in accordance with humanitarian considerations, applicable laws and appropriate procedures.
