DIMAPUR, OCT 26 (NPN): Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) minority department has urged the state government to clarify the authenticity and legal status of a reported October 23 directive calling for Sunday shop closures and a shutdown of businesses, saying the issue should be addressed through dialogue and the rule of law.
In a press release, NPCC minority department acknowledged the significance of Nagaland’s Christian heritage and Sunday as a day of worship, rest and family life, and appealed to traders and business establishments to respect the faith and customs of the people.
It said businesses could observe Sunday closures, wherever practicable, in a spirit of goodwill and mutual understanding.
However, the department said the reported directive may have caused uncertainty and panic among traders. It urged the government and concerned authorities to clarify its scope and implementation so business owners were not left to act on rumours or fear.
It also appealed to traders to remain calm, avoid circulating unverified information and seek guidance from competent authorities. The department stressed that any measure affecting livelihoods must be lawful, fair and implemented with due process.
It said Indian citizens and linguistic minorities who had lived and worked in Nagaland for generations contributed to the state’s social and economic life, adding that their dignity, safety and lawful livelihoods must be protected.
It said concerns should be addressed through dialogue and lawful procedures rather than intimidation, arbitrary exclusion or discrimination based on origin.
The minority department called upon community leaders, traders, civil society and residents to preserve peace, avoid inflammatory statements and work towards an arrangement that respects Christian values while protecting livelihoods and peaceful coexistence.
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