The Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) today announced a significant move aimed at advocating for greater inclusion of the business community in the governance structures of Nagaland’s urban centers. During a press conference held at Hotel Saramati in Dimapur, the newly inducted executive council, under the continued leadership of re-elected chairman Dr. Khekugha Muru, declared an “indefinite voluntary business shutdown” across nine districts in Nagaland, commencing on May 19, 2025. This decisive action underscores the CNCCI’s unwavering demand for nominee representation in the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across the state.
Dr. Muru addressed the media, highlighting a persistent “communication gap” between the appeals made by the nine district chambers and the response from the government of Nagaland. Over the past four years, the CNCCI has diligently communicated its non-negotiable demand for nominee representation in the ULBs of all nine districts through letters addressed to key government officials, including the chief secretary, chief minister, deputy chief minister, and the advisor for urban development and municipal affairs.
While acknowledging the nomination of representatives to the ULBs of Kohima and Mokokchung, the CNCCI expressed strong disappointment over the exclusion of other major commercial hubs, most notably Dimapur. Dr. Muru articulated the sentiment that if the government intended to exclude the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) and other district representatives, it should have refrained from any nominations altogether, rather than creating a disparity by appointing representatives for only two districts.
In response to this perceived inequality, the CNCCI president announced the collective decision of its district members to initiate a “democratic indefinite voluntary business shutdown” encompassing nine districts: Dimapur, Chümoukedima, Niuland, Zunheboto, Meluri, Phek, Wokha, Peren, and Tseminyu. This widespread action reflects the unified stance of the business community in these regions.
The CNCCI underscored the vital role that businesses play in urban areas, contributing significantly through trade licenses, sanitation fees, and various other avenues. Drawing a parallel to the Rajya Sabha’s inclusion of nominated members with business and economic expertise, the chamber argued that as key stakeholders, chambers of commerce deserve representation in ULBs to actively contribute to community development initiatives.
Furthermore, the CNCCI believes that business representation within ULBs would provide a crucial mechanism to address regulatory inconsistencies, the prevalence of syndicate systems, and the imposition of arbitrary levies that fall outside the purview of GST and established municipal acts. This inclusion would foster a more transparent and equitable business environment.
Dr. Muru clarified that the CNCCI had initially sought business community representation in every town council. However, following the government’s suggestion to limit the initial phase to districts, the CNCCI agreed to this compromise. The subsequent exclusion of nine districts after the ULB elections, with only Mokokchung and Kohima being accommodated, has led to significant “resentment” within the business community. Consequently, the chambers are now urging the government to apply a consistent standard across all districts.
Reiterating the nature of their action, Dr. Muru emphasized that the impending shutdown is “not anti-government or against the government.” Instead, he characterized it as a legitimate exercise of their democratic right to express their collective displeasure and advocate for their rightful inclusion in urban governance. He assured the public that essential services, including medicines, fuel, and schools, would not be affected by the shutdown.
The press conference also served as an opportunity to introduce the newly elected members of the CNCCI executive council for the 2025–2030 tenure. The council includes three vice chairpersons: Dr. Seyievilie Mor, Jabou Sekhose, and Dorothy Chang. Avi Chase has been elected as the general secretary, with Tsalichum S. Sangtam and Kekhrieletuo Kelio serving as secretaries. Omega Yepthomi will head the grievances tribunal, and the joint secretaries include S. Abenthung Ngullie, Tocky Zhimo, and Chiloising Michoi, with Kevin Yepthomi appointed as treasurer.
This unified and determined stance by the CNCCI Announced business shutdown starting Mayb19, signals a critical juncture in the relationship between the business community and the government of Nagaland. The upcoming business shutdown will undoubtedly draw significant attention to the long-standing demand for equitable representation and meaningful participation in the governance of the state’s urban centres.