Chamber demands government action, protection for business establishments
Zunheboto, October 31 (MExN): The Zunheboto Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ZCCI) has opposed the purported 30-day ultimatum issued by NSCN/FRGN directing non-local business establishments to shut down in Nagaland, urging the State government to take decisive action against intimidation and ensure the security of the business community.
In a press release issued by its president, Kikheto Muru, and vice president, Lhok iye Yepthomi, the ZCCI called on the government to issue a clear directive prohibiting the forced closure or obstruction of business establishments through threats, intimidation or coercive orders issued outside the lawful governmental framework.
It also sought appropriate legal and administrative action against individuals or groups found engaging in unlawful intimidation, alongside adequate protection for business owners, employees, customers and commercial properties. The Chamber further called for an accessible mechanism to report threats and seek immediate assistance.
Expressing solidarity with the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industries (CNCCI), the ZCCI said the reported directive threatened the lawful operation of businesses and created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the business community.
While acknowledging the importance of protecting the interests, identity and customary rights of Nagaland’s indigenous people, the Chamber maintained that such concerns must be addressed through lawful, constitutional and duly established governmental mechanisms.
“No individual or organization should be permitted to take the law into their own hands, or impose arbitrary restrictions on legitimate commercial activities through intimidation, threat, or unilateral ultimatums,” the press release stated.
The ZCCI said the reported directive raised serious concerns over citizens’ fundamental rights to practise any profession and carry on lawful trade or business, while undermining equality before the law, due process and the rule of law.
It further stated that coercive measures ran contrary to the spirit of Ease of Doing Business, which seeks to promote entrepreneurship, generate employment and strengthen the economy, including that of the indigenous people. A secure, predictable and lawful environment, it added, was essential for businesses to operate.
The Chamber expressed hope that the government would treat the matter with the urgency and seriousness it warranted and take appropriate steps to safeguard the rights, security and legitimate interests of the business community in Nagaland.
.JPG)
